Percepciones y experiencias de la población ante la transformación de la modalidad de las consultas en atención primaria durante la pandemia

AIM: To explore the perceptions and experiences of the general population regarding the impact of the implementation of teleconsultation in primary health care during the pandemic. DESIGN: methodology with a descriptive–interpretative approach, whose fieldwork was carried out between May and November 2020. PLACE: Study conducted in Navarra and Euskadi. Population groups with different profiles of associated and non-associated citizenship in both Autonomous Communities. A total of 62 primary health care users have participated and 10 focus groups were carried out. METHOD: The focus groups followed a semi-structured script based on the variables of analysis and dimensions of interest according to the different participant profiles and objectives. The sessions were recorded and transcribed. An inductive content analysis was performed. Data triangulation was realized in order to ensure validity. RESULTS: The perception of teleconsultation by the population has varied throughout the pandemic and has been heterogeneous. The participants consider that the non-face-to-face modality may have repercussions on the quality of care, as well as amplifying inequalities in access to primary health care. CONCLUSIONS: It is essential to carry out analyses and evaluations from a health equity perspective in order to make decisions related to the use of technology in general and teleconsultation in particular, in the post-pandemic future of primary health care.