By Dr Vishal Sehgal,
Change is the only continuous. And in a field like science, this cannot be truer. In a situation like the current COVID-19 pandemic, modifications in the way therapy and care are supplied are inevitable. The pandemic place folks with non-communicable illnesses such as cancer at a larger danger of infections due to their suppressed immune program and also led to delays in consultations and therapy plans. In the absence of timely and optimal care, lots of even succumbed to their circumstances. This is exactly where telemedicine and teleconsultation emerged as a guiding force and gamechanger. They not only helped patients through instances like this but also ensured that they get far better wellness outcomes. Even in case of circumstances like cancer, the way it is managed and treated with no the want for in-individual visits became probable with the aid of what is referred to as teleoncology.
Teleoncology refers to the delivery of clinical oncology services by means of digital channels. Although not a new notion, it became central to therapy preparing and management in the wake of the pandemic. It aids cut down exposure of patients to any sort of hospital-acquired infections, supplying direct rewards to each physicians and caregivers. Many organizations have also laid out clear suggestions for teleoncology services. For instance, the ESMO suggests that patients who are on low and medium priority can be consulted by means of teleoncology and also defines these parameters.
Teleoncology is of certain aid to cancer patients on oral medication, these who need advise on doses, or in circumstances exactly where supportive care suggestions are required. It is also an great tool for lengthy-term adhere to-up in case the patients are from remote locations. Teleoncology, in lots of situations, has helped specialists about the globe collaborate for difficult circumstances. According to a study, virtual radiation oncology services led to higher patient satisfaction. This indicates how teleoncology is an effective and expense-successful medium that can present higher-good quality services in lengthy-term adhere to-up care for cancer patients. Video-based consultation can also allow clinicians to assess the history of symptoms, danger of exposure, and other elements and thereby take an informed selection on the way forward.
There are some issues about employing teleoncology as properly, the most significant one becoming accessibility. A steady connection and restricted access to the world wide web are challenges that will want to be overcome. Traditional teleoncology may possibly also not be a hassle-free selection for these with impaired hearing, vision, or cognition. However, the benefits of teleoncology outweigh these setbacks and with the worry posed by the pandemic, the acceptance is only set to improve in the future.
In conclusion
Telehealth and telemedicine are going to be the pillars that drive healthcare in the years ahead. From becoming an essential component of therapy delivery procedure, teleoncology will present more rewards for managing cancer patients. The rewards are clear and the want of the hour is to enhance this field of service by instruction customers and issuing clear suggestions. It is also essential for wellness systems to incorporate virtual care into oncology, all of which will aid revolutionize cancer care in India.
(The author is Medical Director, Portea Medical. Views expressed are individual and do no reflect position or police of the TheSpuzz Online.)