Impact of direct-to-consumer telemedicine consultations on follow-up consultations, episode costs, and antibiotic prescribing for upper respiratory tract infections in Sweden: An observational study - Takeaways - MDSpire
Coming Soon: Introducing MDSpire News. Learn more
Conexiant’s news site is now MDSpire News. Learn more

Effects of Direct-to-Consumer Telemedicine Visits on Follow-Up Care, Episode Costs, and Antibiotic Use for Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Sweden: An Observational Study

  • By

  • Emma Spånberg

  • Tobias Dahlström

  • Clas Rehnberg

  • Nils Janlöv

  • October 8, 2026

Share

  • 1

    The study compared direct-to-consumer telemedicine with in-person primary care for upper respiratory tract infections in Swedish patients aged 2 years or older.

  • 2

    The analysis examined follow-up consultations, episode costs, and antibiotic prescribing after care initiation.

  • 3

    The study used patient-level data from urban and rural areas of Sweden, where direct-to-consumer telemedicine was widely adopted before the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • 4

    Upper respiratory tract infections are common primary care complaints, although most are self-limiting and do not require antibiotic therapy.

  • 5

    Prior research on telemedicine and antibiotic prescribing, follow-up care, and costs has produced inconsistent findings, with limited Swedish evidence on direct-to-consumer care.

Original Source(s)

Impact of direct-to-consumer telemedicine consultations on follow-up consultations, episode costs, and antibiotic prescribing for upper respiratory tract infections in Sweden: An observational study

  • by Emma Spånberg, Tobias Dahlström, Clas Rehnberg, Nils Janlöv

  • October 8, 2026

Related Content

Feasibility of Implementing a Pharmacist-Integrated Collaborative Model for Opioid Use Disorder: A Nonrandomized Clinical Trial

Ureteral obstruction linked to degenerative sacroiliitis

CT identified an unusual cause of hydronephrosis despite stable renal function and no urinary symptoms.

Measuring What Matters in Primary Care: Continuity, Trust, and Stewardship