PANAJI
Originally slated for launch on October 2, the State government is expected to introduce a telemedicine module in its public health services from Saturday.
The initiative is expected to provide citizens to consult doctors over the phone and avoid if possible physical visits to the Goa Medical College, district hospitals, community health centres and other government-run health institutions.
Telemedicine was a module that came in handy for many after the Covid-19 pandemic hit the State and health professionals initially shut shop due to the unpredictability of the novel coronavirus and its transmission behaviour.
The Goa State branch of the Indian Medical Association also introduced a telemedicine service in the State but it was restricted to Covid care.
Telemedicine is touted as the route to take to make up for the lack of health facilities and doctors in rural landscapes. Health authorities in Goa believe it will immensely help the population in far-flung villages who otherwise have to travel great distances to reach health centres and larger facilities both in the public and private sector even for minor ailments where physical examination of the patient is unnecessary.
Details of the module which the Goa health department will roll out are expected to be announced on Saturday.
