What is Telemedicine ?

What is Telemedicine ?

 

Telemedicine refers to the use of telecommunication technology (like video calls, phone calls, mobile apps, and the internet) to provide healthcare services remotely. It allows doctors and patients to interact without being physically present in the same location.

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Key Features of Telemedicine:

1.   Remote Consultations – Doctors can diagnose, treat, and monitor patients via video/audio calls or chat.

2.   E-Prescriptions – Physicians can send prescriptions digitally.

3.   Remote Monitoring – Devices like wearables help monitor blood pressure, sugar levels, etc., from home.

4.   Health Apps & Portals – Patients can upload symptoms, book appointments, and access medical records.

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Types of Telemedicine:

Type	Description
Live Video (Real-Time)	Doctor and patient interact via video conferencing.
Store-and-Forward	Medical data (like X-rays, reports) is shared for review later.
Remote Monitoring	Vital signs are tracked through connected devices.
Mobile Health (mHealth)	Health-related apps for monitoring and reminders.

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Benefits:

• Saves travel time, especially in rural or remote areas
• Reduces healthcare costs
• Accessible 24/7 in many cases
• Safe during pandemics (e.g., COVID-19)
• Increases access to specialists

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Challenges:

• Requires internet and digital literacy
• Privacy and data security concerns
• Not suitable for emergencies or complex procedures

 

🌐 Telemedicine in India:

• The Government of India launched the eSanjeevani platform, a free telemedicine service.
• Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission aims to link health records and services digitally.
• Widely used in rural areas to reach specialist doctors.