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Online Doctor Consultation

In recent years, India has seen a significant increase in healthcare trends, particularly in the use of online doctor consultations. As people become more tech-savvy and have access to reliable internet services, they are increasingly turning to online consultations as a convenient and cost-effective way to seek medical advice. According to a survey conducted by Ipsos, a global market research company, in 2020, 86% of Indians said that they would be willing to consult with a doctor online. The same survey also found that 75% of Indians were aware of online healthcare services and 58% had used them at least once.

Another study conducted by an online healthcare platform found that the number of online consultations increased by 500% in India in 2020, compared to the previous year. The study also found that the most common reasons for online consultations were fever, cough, and cold, followed by diabetes, hypertension, and mental health issues.

Furthermore, the Indian government’s National Health Stack estimates that the telemedicine market in India is expected to grow from $500 million in 2020 to $5.5 billion by 2025, indicating a significant increase in the use of online healthcare services in the country.

Traditional vs. Digital Healthcare Systems in India

Traditional healthcare systems in India have been the backbone of the healthcare sector for centuries. These systems typically involve a patient visiting a doctor or a hospital for a consultation, diagnosis, and treatment. While this system has been successful in the past, it is now facing several challenges, such as a shortage of qualified doctors, long waiting times, and high consultation fees. On the other hand, digital healthcare systems, particularly online doctor consultations, are becoming increasingly popular in India. With the rise of telemedicine, patients can consult with a doctor online from the comfort of their homes, using their smartphones or computers. This system is particularly useful for patients who live in remote areas, have limited mobility, or prefer to avoid crowded hospitals.

Doctor vs. Patient Scenario in India

A survey conducted by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in 2020 found that there is only one doctor for every 1,457 people in India, well below the World Health Organization’s recommended ratio of one doctor for every 1,000 people. Additionally, the survey found that 40% of patients in India had to wait for more than two hours for a doctor’s appointment. This highlights the urgent need for alternative healthcare systems in India, such as online doctor consultations.

Benefits of Online Doctor Consultation

• Convenience: Patients can consult with a doctor from the comfort of their homes, without having to travel to a hospital or clinic and waiting in the long queues for their turn to consult the doctor.
• Cost-effective: Online consultations are generally less expensive than traditional consultations, as there are no overhead costs associated with maintaining a physical office as well the cost of travel for the patients is also none.
• Time-saving: Patients can avoid long waiting times associated with traditional consultations. In fact, their travel time is also reduced to zero.
• Accessible: Patients in remote areas can consult with a doctor even with specialty and higher qualifications without having to travel long distances.
• Personalized care: Doctors can provide personalized care to patients through online consultations, as they have access to the patient’s medical history and can monitor their progress over time.

Who can give an online doctor consultation in India?

In India, there are many qualified doctors who can provide online consultations. The qualifications required for a doctor to offer online consultations are the same as those required for in-person consultations. In general, doctors who offer online consultations should have completed a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from a recognized medical college or university in India. Additionally, they must be registered with the Medical Council of India (MCI) or the State Medical Council (SMC).

Some doctors may also have completed additional training and specialization in a particular field of medicine, such as cardiology, pediatrics, neurology, or psychiatry. These specialists are known as MD (Doctor of Medicine) or MS (Master of Surgery) doctors. To ensure that you are consulting with a qualified and licensed doctor, it’s important to use a reputable online platform or website for online consultations. These platforms usually require doctors to submit their credentials and verify their registration with the medical council before offering their services.

What are the medical issues for which you can take online doctor consultations?

Online doctor consultation can be useful for a wide range of medical problems, including:

• Common cold and flu symptoms
• Minor injuries, such as cuts and bruises
• Skin rashes and allergies
• Digestive issues, such as acid reflux, diarrhea, and constipation
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, stress management, and relationship issues
• Chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma
• Sexual health concerns, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and erectile dysfunction
• Women’s health issues, such as menstrual problems, pregnancy-related issues, and menopause-related symptoms.
• Follow-up consultations for chronic conditions, such as arthritis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Medication management for conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes
• Nutrition and lifestyle counseling for weight management or managing chronic conditions
• Smoking cessation counseling
• Pediatric concerns, such as routine checkups and minor illnesses
• Travel-related health issues, such as vaccinations and medications for preventing or treating malaria, typhoid, or traveler’s diarrhea.

However, it’s important to note that online consultations may not be suitable for all medical conditions and emergencies. For serious or urgent medical issues, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention in person or through emergency services.

Who Can Benefit from Online Doctor Consultation?

Anyone who needs medical advice can benefit from online doctor consultations, including patients with chronic conditions, those seeking a second opinion, those who require minor medical advice, and those who cannot travel due to various reasons. Online consultations are also useful for patients who need medical advice outside of regular office hours.

How to Do Online Doctor Consultation?

To do an online doctor consultation, patients need to follow a few simple steps:

• Log on to www.medicalcertificate.in, an online healthcare platform that connects patients with registered medical practitioners.
• Fill up a quick form providing the necessary personal and medical information.
• Get an online consultation with the doctor on call
• Receive medical advice and prescriptions or certificate online, as per your requirements.