The emerging trend of tele-consultation in oncology post COVID-19

Ever since COVID-19 has taken the world for a ride upside-down, Telemedicine has been a topic of discussion in the healthcare world. Though it was not something new to the industry, but it got its share of attention and shed light on avenues that were almost unexplored previously. The digitization of healthcare practices in order to facilitate timely medical consultation has been helpful for many suffering from diseases such as cancer, kidney problems, gynecological issues, mental health and more. The pandemic has accelerated the whole process of tele consult and tele medicine, and now it’s going to continuously grow to help patients in every corner of the world.

People often have queries related to efficiency of telemedicine in cancer care and treatment. The concerns need to be addressed for a seamless experience of patients, and their family while consulting with the oncology experts digitally.

Below are top 4 questions and their answers that are meant to make teleconsultation a cakewalk:

• What is Tele-oncology?

In simple terms taking consultations from an oncologist using digital mediums such as mobile phone, computer, laptop or tablet with the help of internet and telemedicine portals. These portals help patients reach out to best oncologists irrespective of geographical boundaries.

• How does it help in cancer care?

It’s common practice that cancer patients and their family members seek second opinion, before starting on an action plan. Tele oncology helps patients to get consultation from renowned oncologists from across the nation and even from international experts, while sitting in the comforts of home or office. The only need is a good Wifi / broad band connection and digitised medical records, which could be uploaded and shared. With the help of modern technology, in almost 80% cases it is possible for the clinician to get accurate information about the biological behaviour of a particular cancer, the stage of disease and the fitness level of the patient. These three aspects help us take a good decision.

In one out of five patients, I think physical check up makes a difference. This can be worked out to a great extent with the help of some basic level medical assistance at the patient’s end. This practice is very convenient and cost effective, more so in the current global scenario. Patients can contact oncologists digitally, discuss their problems, seek suggestions, and proceed accordingly. If the doctor feels that the condition is critical and one needs to go through a physical checkup, they recommend a visit to a nearby hospital or care center.

• Is tele-consultation effective in cancer care?

Tele consult is a big boon and is extremely effective in majority of cases. Lot of unnecessary visits and travel is avoided. Given the current situation, tele-oncology is to ensure safety of the patients as well as the doctors. Tele-oncology includes remote supervision of chemotherapy, symptom management, survivorship care of the patient and palliative care. As the doctor and the patient are connected digitally, a better supervision of lifestyle, adherence to medication, data management of the patient’s health records is possible. Tele-oncology facilitates cancer care and treatment would grow very well in rural areas too. It is cost effective as compared to traditional medical consultation.

• Does it ensure privacy?

Yes, it is completely safe and data secure. The digital records of cancer patients on telemedicine platform is end-to-end secured to ensure privacy of the patients. At times, the data is shared with the medical team of the doctors, but with complete knowledge and approval of the patients. This helps in better diagnosis. Additionally, the digital records of clinical history, test reports, prescriptions etc., make it easy for both the parties to access the information and take necessary action.

Technological advancements are being made to ensure better cancer treatment and care across the nation. Digital pathology, digital radiology, centralized reporting, backed by technical support are certain important aspects that need to be focused on. Training our own local population into technician courses, building nurse practitioners cadre, will bring down cost and improve access to quality cancer care.

Dr Harit Chaturvedi, Chairman – Max Institute of Cancer Care, Max Healthcare, and a Patron of SeekMed.

–MB Bureau