TELEMEDICINE
It allows patients to consult with doctors and specialists without needing to visit a clinic or hospital, improving access to care and convenience.
Key Features:
Remote Consultations: Patients can speak with healthcare providers via video, phone, or chat.
E-Prescriptions: Doctors can issue prescriptions electronically after an online consultation.
Follow-ups & Monitoring: Ideal for chronic condition management, post-treatment follow-ups, and mental health support.
Diagnostic Services: Some platforms integrate tools for lab tests, image sharing, and remote diagnostics.
Benefits:
Increased Access: Especially valuable for rural or underserved areas.
Time and Cost Efficient: Reduces travel time, clinic wait times, and associated expenses.
Continuity of Care: Enables consistent monitoring of long-term health conditions.
Safe and Convenient: Minimizes exposure to infections and offers care from the comfort of home.
Common Applications
General medical advice and primary care
Mental health counseling
Follow-up visits for chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, asthma
Dermatology (via photo/video consultations)
Pediatric and elderly care
Limitations
- Not suitable for emergency or life-threatening conditions
- Limited by internet access and digital literacy
- Physical examinations and procedures still require in-person visits