Government Telemedicine Service Faces Challenges Despite Policy Focus
Summary
Government telemedicine services are expanding on paper but remain ineffective because of a shortage of specialist doctors, weak internet connectivity, and poor coordination. Patients in remote areas still struggle to access consultations, while the health ministry plans to connect more hospitals and allocate provincial budgets to improve the system.
Key Points
- Telemedicine has been featured in the government’s policy and program every year, but implementation remains weak due to limited specialist staff and slow internet service.
- Patients report difficulty reaching hospital telemedicine numbers and still have to visit hospitals in person for treatment.
- The Ministry of Health has allocated 10 lakh rupees per province for telemedicine this fiscal year and plans to expand the service to at least 14 hospitals.
- Hub hospitals have been designated in all seven provinces to connect district and local hospitals with specialist consultation services.
