Telemedicine for Women's Health During COVID-19 Pandemic in India: A Short Commentary and Important Practice Points for Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF STUDY: In view of restrictions on patients because of COVID-19 pandemic, face-to-face consultations are difficult. This short commentary tells us about the feasibility of telemedicine in this scenario in obstetrics and gynaecology.

METHODS

The database from our teleconsultation application (Apollo 247 and Askapollo) was analysed to assess feasibility of telemedicine and to design a triage pathway to reduce hospital visits for non-emergency situations and also to identify emergency cases without delay during this lockdown phase. Existing guidelines by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW), Government of India, were accessed.

RESULTS

This was a single-doctor experience of 375 consultations done over 65 days. We also designed a triage pathway for obstetrics and gynaecology cases, and we discussed general practice for obstetricians and gynaecologists with its utility and limitations.

CONCLUSION

Telemedicine has provided us the opportunity to manage women health problems and pregnancy concerns during this pandemic of COVID-19, except a few instances where face-to-face consultation or hospital visit is must. If we implement the triage pathway, we can minimize the risk of exposure for both patients and healthcare teams during COVID-19 pandemic.