The telemedicine scheme initiated by the state health department for remote and tribal areas has emerged as a boon for patients. According to the health department, an average of 100 patients benefits from this service daily. Over the last five years, more than 1.3 lakh patients have availed of this facility.
The health department, with assistance from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), launched the telemedicine service in the state on September 7, 2006. By 2007-08, the service had been extended to 20 district hospitals and two sub-district hospitals. In February 2011, the telemedicine network was further expanded to cover 30 sub-district and rural hospitals.
Dr. Nitin Ambadekar, Director of the Health Services Department, said that in 2020-21, telemedicine services were extended to government hospitals in tribal and remote areas. Efforts are ongoing to make the scheme more effective and accessible.
Over 1.3 Lakh Beneficiaries in Five Years
| Year | Number of Patients |
| 2019-20 | 31,286 |
| 2020-21 | 12,786 |
| 2021-22 | 15,665 |
| 2022-23 | 25,805 |
| 2023-24 | 27,400 |
| 2024 (up to December) | 17,054 |
Telemedicine and Its Convenience
Telemedicine refers to the provision of remote clinical services, via real-time two-way communication between the patient and the healthcare provider, using electronic audio and visual means.
Specialist doctors communicate with patients through video conferencing, analyzing health reports and consulting with local doctors to offer accurate guidance for treatment.
Specialized tools like e-stethoscopes allow doctors to monitor patients’ heartbeats and lung functions. X-rays, CT scans, sonographies, and MRIs are shared via software, while facilities for live viewing of ECGs, echocardiograms, and angiograms are also available.
This advanced technology ensures effective treatment for patients in remote and tribal areas, enabling timely medical intervention. In many cases, critically ill patients have been saved due to this service.
