Chennai

From about 5,000 consultations in mid-July, the State crossed about 50,000 consultations in August first week. The number of consultations has recorded an increase over the past three months and about 1.5 lakh sessions have been completed till October third week.

Chennai recorded more than 80,000 teleconsultations, which is the highest in the State. Several other districts, including Coimbatore, Virudhunagar, Salem, Madurai and Tirupur, also saw a significant number of consultations. The officials from the Tamil Nadu National Health Mission said the numbers saw a boost after mental health consultations were also made available on the platform.

While general OPD through eSanjeevani functions from 8 am to 8 pm, antiretroviral therapy, tuberculosis consultation, obstetrics and gynaecology have specific timings during the week. The mental health OPD functions from 10 am to 1 pm every day. “The system of e-prescription has made it easier for a lot of patients who require regular checkups but are at a high risk of contracting COVID-19 during hospital visits. The State has seen a major reach through the digital platform and it also helps in boosting other public healthcare programmes. Teleconsultations are here to stay,” said Dr K Senthil Raj, mission director, National Health Mission.

Visit news.dtnext.in to explore our interactive epaper!

Download the DT Next app for more exciting features!

Click here for iOS

Click here for Android