Using Telemedicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Telemedicine is the delivery of health care services using information or communication technology. In the current pandemic scenario, telemedicine can supplement health-care delivery in the absence of in-person visit. The Government of India has recently launched the e-sanjeevani OPD, a National teleconsultation service, which has been adopted by many state governments as mandatory for health-care providers. With Indian Medical Association issuing an advisory against the use of telemedicine except in few situations, a lot of confusion exists in the mind of a pediatrician. Despite the uncertain situation, we have to remember that other diseases shall not stall in the face of a pandemic. Since telemedicine is an evolving subject, training of medical professionals, clear guidelines and good quality internet service systems will go a long way in increasing the acceptability of telemedicine in the Indian population. We herein discuss issues related to using telemedicine during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.