Title: Telemedicine- Reaching Out to the Unreached Rural Poor and As a Tool of CME
Authors: Dr Amol Kinge, Dr Kamaxi Bhate, Dr R. R. Shinde, Dr Sumit Wasnik
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v4i10.33
Abstract
Introduction- Telemedicine is used as an umbrella term that refers to the remote delivery of health-care information using electronic telecommunication and information technology. In other words, there is a transfer of medical and health information between distant sites/participants using telecommunication and information technology as a substitute for personal contact. Telemedicine technology can be utilized for a wide range of health-care needs. This fall into three major categories including: (a) Tele-consultation (b) tele-monitoring and support and (c) tele-education to provide academic exposure to the doctors serving in rural areas.
The aim of the study is to gain practical insights to evolve strategies for effective facilitation of Telemedicine with objectives are to assess the utilization patterns & extent of utility of Telemedicine services in rural areas of Maharashtra and to map the morbidity patterns and epidemiological determinants of the patients reported to Telemedicine unit.
Materials & Methods: Retrospective data analysis of all cases referred (Case documents / audio-video records) to telemedicine department of an Apex Institute KEM Hospital Mumbai from May 2008 to March 2014. Data was collected from telemedicine department in month of august 2014.
Results- 1) Referrals for diagnostic opinions predominate amongst the total cases reported through telemedicine. 2) Most cases were referred for “second opinion”. However establishment of professional networking and main streaming of institutional competency is an added advantage. 3) Reaching out with CMEs to the doctors.
Conclusion- Telemedicine make specialty care more accessible and eliminating lengthy travel and costly transportation.
Keywords- telemedicine, ISRO, accessible rural health care.
