Utility of telemedicine for children in India

Abstract

Objective: To show utility of telemedicine to children in Indian subcontinent.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of data on 306 consecutive patients (age range 0-15 yr) managed between yr 2005-2008 in telemedicine centre of a tertiary care hospital in North India. The patient consultation were conducted using two customized soft wares--Televital and Sanjeevani. Data was extracted on a predesigned Performa.

Results: The data included clinical details, investigations and radiological images. Ten percent of children were critically ill and could not have been in a position to be transported safely. Twelve percent of the consultations resulted in videoconferencing. There was a paucity of feedback back and follow up of these consultations.

Conclusion: It is possible to provide e-health care through telemedicine to children in Indian rural and semi-urban setting. The e-health can be extended to critically ill children including newborns on a restricted basis.