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: forconnecting 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.