Year: 2025 | Month: December | Volume: 15 | Issue: 12 | Pages: 61-66
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20251207
Evaluating the Medical Professional Practice based on Merits and Demerits of Telemedicine from Doctor’s Perspective in Western Maharashtra
Dr. Raiba Deshmukh1, Dr. Priti Shah2, Dr Aditi Dubey3, Dr Gehna Gehlot4
1Associate Professor, Department of General Surgery, Symbiosis Medical College for Women & Symbiosis University Hospital and Research Center, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, India.
2Professor, Department of General Surgery, Symbiosis Medical College for Women & Symbiosis University Hospital and Research Center, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, India.
3Intern, Department of General Surgery, Symbiosis Medical College for Women & Symbiosis University Hospital and Research Center, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, India.
4Intern, Department of General Surgery, Symbiosis Medical College for Women & Symbiosis University Hospital and Research Center, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, India.
Corresponding Author: Dr. Raiba Deshmukh
ABSTRACT
Telemedicine has significantly impacted healthcare delivery, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed at evaluating the merits and demerits of telemedicine from the perspective of medical professionals practicing in tertiary care centers and private hospitals across Western Maharashtra. Using a cross-sectional descriptive design, data were collected via a structured questionnaire from 25 postgraduate doctors across various specialties, including general medicine, surgery, pediatrics, dermatology, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, and psychiatry.
Findings revealed that 41.7% of respondents used telemedicine daily, with mobile-based video consultations being the preferred modality (70.8%). While 87.5% agreed that telemedicine improved patient access, significant technical challenges were reported—41.7% faced internet issues, 33.3% experienced software glitches, and 16.7% noted platform lag. Financial dissatisfaction was widespread, with most doctors unable to determine consultation fees based on time spent and only 58.3% receiving timely payments. Additionally, 66.7% felt that patients did not adequately respect their time and expertise during virtual consultations.
Despite these challenges, the majority acknowledged that telemedicine allowed sufficient time for patient interaction and facilitated efficient appointment scheduling. The study highlights the need for improved digital infrastructure, transparent remuneration models, and patient education to enhance the effectiveness of telemedicine. Improved strategies and acceptance by the patients are key to bridge healthcare gaps and improve health service accessibility.
Key words: Telemedicine, Doctors, Professional Practice, Mobile Applications