Physicians’ experiences with telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic in India

Abstract Purpose Digital health is an important factor in India’s healthcare system. Inclusive policy measures, a fertile technological landscape, and relevant infrastructural development with unprecedented levels of telemedicine adoption catalysed by the recent COVID-19 pandemic have thrown open new possibilities and opportunities for clinicians, end-users, and other stakeholders. Nevertheless, there are still several challenges to properly integrating and scaling telemedicine use in India. This study’s objective was to understand the views of practising physicians in India on the use of telemedicine and the challenges experienced during the accelerated rollout during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods We acquired data through an anonymous, cross-sectional, internet-based survey of physicians (n=444) across India on the COVID-19 frontline. These responses were subjected to qualitative data analysis (via inductive coding and thematic analyses) and descriptive statistics, as appropriate. Results Most responses (n=51) were categorised under a code indicating that telemedicine-led healthcare delivery compromised treatment quality. The second largest proportion of responses (n=22) suggested that ‘Accessibility, quality and maturity of software and hardware infrastructure’ was a considerable challenge. Conclusions Despite the considerable uptake, perceived benefits, and the foreseen positive role of telemedicine in India, several challenges of telemedicine use (viz., technical, user experience-based integration, and non-user-based integration challenges) have been identified. These must be addressed through suggested relevant opportunities to realise telemedicine’s potential and help inform the future design of effective telemedicine policy and practice in India. Funding No funding to report. Declarations None