TELE-ORAL MEDICINE: AN INNOVATION TO MAINTAIN CARE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

OBJECTIVES: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all areas, including health. The high and rapid transmission of SARS-Cov-2 caused the need for professionals to innovate to keep in touch with their patients. This study aimed show the experience of the Tele-Oral Medicine at a referral service in the Jequitinhonha Valley, Brazil, during the COVID-19. STUDY DESIGN: This study included all queries made by the Tele-Oral Medicine from May 2020 to February 2021. Dentists or patients used a smartphone/computer to contact the stomatologists, via Skype or WhatsApp, by sending messages via chat with clinical data and photos of the oral lesions. RESULTS: A total of 125 patients were attended, and 63 health professionals were assisted through tele-consultations, from 29 cities in the Jequitinhonha Valley. Ninety-five cases required face-to-face consultation (76%), whereas in 24 cases the diagnosis was made virtually (19.2%), avoiding long-distance travel. Forty-two biopsies were performed (33.6%), with potentially malignant oral disorders/squamous cell carcinoma (11 cases, 26.2%), salivary gland pathology (8 cases, 19%), and reactive processes/infectious diseases (7 cases. 16.6%%) the most frequent diagnoses. CONCLUSIONS: Tele-Oral Medicine allows the screening and diagnosis of oral cancer and should be incorporated in clinical practice to reduce on-site visits.