Telemedicine refers to the practice of caring for patients remotely when the provider and patient are not physically present with each other. Modern technology has enabled doctors to consult patients by using HIPAA compliant video-conferencing tools. Examples of telehealth include health education services, remote monitoring of vital signs, ECG or blood pressure and remote doctor-patient consultations. The ongoing lockdown imposed by Covid-19 has completely changed the way the telemedicine industry functions in the world and especially in Pakistan.
The healthcare sector is currently looking at ways that revolutionizes the use of telemedicine in their sector.In an effort to transition to a more modern way of dealing with other illnesses, Geo.tv recently compiled a list of companies such as organisations, hospitals, and individuals providing free telemedicine services to the public. The list is as follows:
- COVID-19 Telehealth Portal
A service which was launched by the federal government. Their contract details are on WhatsApp at 0300-1111166 or visit their website at https://telehealth.gov.pk/signup
- Sindh Mental Health Authority Help Line
The Sindh government have made strides to ensure the pandemic is under control. In this effort, they have launched this helpline to meet the needs of people suffering from mental health issues. They can be reached at 021 & 022- 111-117-642.
- DoctHers
A unique service that works for all-female doctors organisation that is providing their services free of cost. They can be reached at 021-35246711.
- Telepolyclinic
Telepolyclinic provides a range of various doctors at their service which specialize from from GPs to gynaecologists. They can be reached at www.telepolyclinic.com or their Facebook page at fb.com/telepolyclinic
- Sehat Kahani
They aim to democratize healthcare by building an all female health provider network that can be contacted via their app which is available for download on both iOS and Android.
- Elaj Plus
Elaj Plus provides an application service that aims to work in collaboration with the Young Doctors Association Sindh and currently has 200+ doctors available round the clock. The app is available on Google Play store for Android phones.
- Find My Doctor
Find My Doctor is an organisation that sends its doctors to their customer’s house who are also equipped with PPEs to ensure their safety. They can be reached via their app available on both iOS and Android.
- PIMA
Pakistan Islamic Medical Association has a variety of doctors on service and can be reached at: 0315-5550911 (9am-1pm), 0316-6660912 (1-5pm), 0317-7770913 (5-9pm)
- Umang
An organisation that aims to help people with mental health and can be contacted at 0317-4288665.
- Doctors 247
They are an organisation that provides the services of skilled doctors through their website round the clock and can be reached via their website at doctors247.online
