Abstract
Aim: In this feasibility study, we aimed to implement a pilot
telemedicine service at our healthcare facility in Faisalabad, Pakistan,
and describe our experience. Methods: Telemedicine service was
established by Faisalabad Medical University at two of its affiliated
locations: 1) A 24-hour COVID-19 Telephone Helpline was established at
Director Emergency Office, Allied Hospital and District Headquarter
(DHQ) Hospital. 2) A Telemedicine Clinic comprising consultants and
postgraduate residents from different specialties was established at
Chief Office, Allied Hospital. The data related to the number and
categories of calls and advice provided was collected from 27th March
2020 till 31st July 2020. Results: A total of 4582 calls were received,
at both locations, during the study period, out of which 2325 callers
(51%) were male, and 2257 (49%) were females. At Allied Hospital, 172
patients were advised accordingly for their complaints, whereas, at DHQ
Hospital, 320 patients were advised accordingly for their complaints. At
the telemedicine clinic only, a total of 2436 calls were received during
the study period, 1474 (60%) callers were male, and 962 (40%) were
female. The majority of the calls were received by medicine (43%),
dermatology (21%), and pediatrics (11%) specialties, respectively.
Conclusion: Despite some limitations, the benefits of telemedicine in
this COVID-19 era are enormous and it is feasible to implement
telemedicine services in developing countries. The developing countries
must invest in the internet and technology access to facilitate
telemedicine and other e-health services for not only curbing this
pandemic but also to promote a more efficient healthcare system after
the pandemic.