Telemedicine in Internal Medicine: Transforming Care with Dr. A.K. Jha

Main Takeaway: Telemedicine bridges the gap between patients and physicians in Patna and Bihar Sharif, offering convenient, high-quality internal medicine consultations that reduce travel, cut costs, and maintain care continuity.

1. Overview of Telemedicine in India

Telemedicine leverages digital technology (video, audio, messaging) to deliver clinical services remotely. Since India’s Telemedicine Practice Guidelines were issued in July 2020 by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, adoption has surged—especially in internal medicine specialties managing chronic diseases.

Key drivers:

• Infrastructure expansion (widespread 4G/5G, smartphone penetration)

• COVID-19 acceleration: necessity for remote care

• Regulatory clarity: registered medical practitioners (RMPs) can legally consult via telemedicine

  
  

2. Internal Medicine Needs & Telemedicine Fit

Internal medicine addresses chronic (diabetes, hypertension), acute (infections), and preventive care. These conditions often require:

• Regular follow-ups

• Medication adjustments

• Lab review and lifestyle counseling

Telemedicine excels here by:

• Enabling frequent check-ins without travel

• Providing timely intervention to avoid complications

• Integrating digital health records for informed decision-making

  
  

3. Q&A with Dr. A.K. Jha

Q: Who benefits most?

A: Patients with chronic illnesses, mobility constraints, and busy schedules; rural populations; and post-discharge follow-ups.

Q: What does a telemedicine visit involve?

1. Patient registers on Ashirvad’s secure portal or app.

2. Completes medical history, symptoms, and uploads recent labs.

3. Video consultation with Dr. Jha—discussion, examination via guided self-exams, and digital prescription.

4. E-follow-up scheduling and lab/test referrals as needed.

Q: How is quality ensured?

• RMPs follow MHFW guidelines on consent, documentation, and privacy.

• Video calls for visual assessment; asynchronous messaging for clarifications.

• Escalation to in-person care when physical exams or procedures are necessary.

Q: What are the outcomes?

Studies show telemedicine in internal medicine reduces hospital readmissions by ~25%, improves blood pressure and glycemic control, and enhances patient satisfaction ratings above 90%.

4. Practical Tips for Patients

• Ensure stable internet and a quiet, well-lit space

• Keep recent lab reports and medication list handy

• Use built-in telemedicine app features: chat for quick questions, scheduling reminders

• Report any worsening symptoms promptly; emergency red flags (chest pain, breathlessness) require in-person care

5. Future Outlook

• AI-powered symptom checkers and remote monitoring devices

• Hybrid care models blending telemedicine with periodic in-clinic visits

• Expanded insurance coverage for telehealth services

Conclusion: By adopting telemedicine for internal medicine, Ashirvad Healthcare—led by experts like Dr. A.K. Jha—delivers accessible, continuous, and patient-centric care. This model not only meets current needs but also paves the way for digitally enabled, resilient healthcare in Patna, Bihar Sharif, and beyond.