India’s telemedicine initiative enhances chronic disease management in rural areas through assisted telemedicine

India’s DigiSetu telemedicine initiative is revolutionising healthcare access and management for chronic disease patients in underserved regions, as highlighted in a recent study conducted in Tamil Nadu. Designed to bridge healthcare gaps, the DigiSetu model combines telemedicine with trained health professionals, providing much-needed support for patients with conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. This is reported by ANI, a partner of TV BRICS.

Over 11,000 patients accessed quality healthcare. This initiative proved instrumental in the early diagnosis and management of chronic conditions, with significant improvements in health outcomes. Diabetes patients observed an average reduction of 33 mg/dL in fasting blood sugar, while hypertensive patients reported reductions of 9.6 mmHg in systolic and 5.5 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure within nine months.

This model is particularly impactful in India, where more than 65 per cent of the population lives in rural areas with limited healthcare access. DigiSetu’s success underscores the potential of assisted telemedicine to close healthcare disparities and drive digital health equity.

The DigiSetu model integrates interoperable health platforms, such as electronic health records, point-of-care diagnostics, and clinical decision support systems, ensuring seamless tele-consultations between patients and physicians. Through extensive training, nurses facilitate these interactions, allowing for efficient and effective care delivery. Over the study period from March 2021 to June 2023, the clinics recorded over 26,000 consultations and 15,000 lab investigations, with newly diagnosed cases representing 43 per cent of diabetes patients and 75.3 per cent of hypertensive patients, emphasising the role of early detection.

With a focus on digital health solutions, DigiSetu sets the stage for scalable, equitable healthcare in low-resource settings.

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