SZABMU begins telemedicine facility

Islamabad: A telemedicine centre has been established at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences/Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University for the people to consult doctors about health issues during the lockdown enforced to prevent coronavirus.

The centre is initially functional through the universal access number (0304-1112101) from 9am to 9pm and will later provide advice to patients round the clock. Telemedicine involves the use of electronic communications and software to provide clinical services to patients without in-person visit.

According to doctors, telemedicine is used to connect to patients, who are unable to step out for primary care due to restrictions on the people's movement and advice for social distancing for the prevention of coronavirus. The facility allows patients or their attendants to discuss their issues with health professionals in real-time from homes.