Lets Reimagine the e-Sanjeevani Telemedicine

Livemint     11th February 2021     Save    

Context: India must ensure that the digital public goods like telemedicine platform eSanjeevani created during the pandemic continue to gain traction once the threat subsides.

Issues with e-Sanjeevani Platform 

  • Abuse: eSanjeevani requires no proof of identity makes it susceptible to similar abuse of doctor's identity as faced by private platforms 
    • E.g. sexual harassment of women doctors through lewd remarks on the pretext of seeking advice. 
    • Even the Adhaar based registration process is not feasible as many do not have their Aadhaar linked with their mobile numbers.
  • Limited availability: in terms of shortage of doctors (due to the possibility of further decline in online consultations by doctors to avoid abuse) and long waits. 
    • Unsuccessful consultation due to unavailability of specialist consultation could discourage use.
  • Limited accessibility:
    • Difficulty in accessing services: by the majority of digitally excluded Indian and those with less knowledge of English.
    • eSanjeevani platform is available only through video-based mobile and web application.

    Way Forward

      • Match doctors and patients algorithmically: (based on gender) using natural language processing to reduce attempts to abuse the platform and record experience of patients.
      • Increase availability of doctors: apart from taking aboard more doctors, record patients symptoms or ailments when they first seek a consultation either by typing or recording voice message.
      • Ensure universal accessibility: through asynchronous channels like functional teleconsultation helplines, auto-diallers, text messages and community-based local centres equipped with mobiles. 
      • Integrate eSanjeevani with National Digital Health Mission: for connecting hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, laboratories, diagnostic centres and doctors offering in-person consultations.

      Conclusion: India should take the current opportunity to scale eSanjeevani as a world-class teleconsultation platform.