Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the Indian Healthcare sector has witnessed many trend changes, and the increasing demand for online doctor consultations is one among them. The country's telemedicine market is expected to reach USD 800million by 2024. Increased advancements in telecommunication, cost-benefits of telemedicine, and swift adoption of smartphone applications are the primary factors driving the Indian telemedicine market. Even the Government of India encourages online doctor consultations and launched the eSanjeevani OPD portal to give free online medical consultations to people across the country.
Benefits of online doctor consultation
Save a lot of time: In online doctor consultations, you don't need to travel to the hospital/clinic or wait outside the doctor's cabin for long hours. Instead, you can do it from the comfort of your home; it also helps you in saving a lot of time and energy. In an online doctor consultation, you need to book an appointment with the doctor of your choice and select the time slot appropriate for you. Just log in to the app when your slot arrives and discuss your health issues with the doctor.
Less chance of getting new infections: As people with various illnesses visit a doctor every day, there may be different viruses and bacteria in a doctor's chamber. By consulting the doctor online, you won't get exposed to them, reducing your chances of catching new infections.
Consultation without boundaries: Another advantage of telemedicine is that you can consult a doctor located in another city or country. It gives people living in the hinterlands access to better medical advice and timely treatment. Further, online medical consultation is best suited for taking a second opinion.
Pocket-friendly: Compared to a clinical visit, online doctor consultation is cost-effective. Many telemedicine apps offer a free consultation for a certain period or subscription-based plans that helps you to save more on your medical bill; additionally, you can save on transportation cost.
Hassel-free recording of medical reports: In virtual consultations, you don't need to keep the records of medical bills and prescriptions. All of them will be available in your account, and you can access them whenever necessary. Most apps send a copy of the prescription to your email id immediately after the consultation. Read More - Know in detail if it is beneficial to seek an Online Doctor Consultation