The equitable distribution of healthcare services is a major goal of public health management in India due to our large population. In fact, 75% of doctors practice in cities and towns. But 68.84% of the Indian population lives in rural areas [1]. So, there is a big gap in access to healthcare services. With technological advancements, healthcare’s reach is expanding through services like telemedicine.
The spread of COVID-19 around the world has made telemedicine the safest way that patients and medical practitioners can interact with each other [2]. It allows you to access medical services anytime and from anywhere. Read on to know more about it and learn how you can avail medical treatment remotely with ease.
Additional Read: Everything you need to know about telemedicine
Telemedicine is the practice of providing medical services through telecommunication technology. It involves the utilisation of digital devices like smartphones and computers. It usually uses the technology of video calling. Healthcare providers may also use phone calls, messaging, or email to offer medical care. This facility can also be called e-health or telehealth.
This progressive step in healthcare allows doctors to evaluate, diagnose, and prescribe treatment to the patients without physically meeting them. It facilitates real-time services and makes healthcare more accessible. You can avail medical services including primary care consultations, physical therapy, psychotherapy, and even certain emergency services through e-medicine.
Telemedicine makes medical services available to you at any time and from anywhere. It bridges the gap of medical care shortage for people living in rural areas. Here are its benefits for both patients and doctors:
Although it has promising benefits, it does have some drawbacks:
During lockdowns and with more people staying at to prevent the spread of COVID-19, telemedicine plays an important role. You can get medical advice and prescriptions without stepping out of your home. This helps curb the spread of contagious diseases as you reduce your risk of coming in contact with infected people. Although there is a need for enhancing the processes to improve the experience, telemedicine surely does have a prominent role to play now and in the future.
Here are some ways you can access this service:
You can talk to a licenced doctor or a hospital about availing telemedicine services. Some doctors or hospitals may need you to pre-register on their portal or app. Others may need you to make an online payment and then confirm an appointment using a messaging app.
There are many websites and apps that provide access to telemedicine services. Such sites usually list practitioners by speciality and reviews. You can easily register with online providers to book teleconsults.
Once you decide to avail of telemedicine services, buy a health insurance policy that covers such expenses. From October 2020, the IRDAI has allowed you to claim expenses of teleconsultations if your policy covers OPD costs and pre or post hospitalisation expenses.
Additional Read: What are the Things to be Cautious with Telemedicine?
Getting health insurance with telemedicine benefits is your safest bet to protect your health affordably. Check the Complete Health Solution plans offered by Bajaj Finserv Health to experience this benefit and more. With these plans, you can teleconsult with doctors of your choice and get reimbursed. You also get lab test benefits up to Rs.17,000 and network partner discounts of up to 10%. So, sign up today, enjoy the benefits of remote healthcare, and never let your health take a backseat!
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