This article is sponsored by Pharmaniaga.
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“Healing from a distance.” That’s the term the World Health Organization (WHO) uses to describe telemedicine. In case you weren’t aware, this concept has been around for a while now—since the late 1950’s. But you probably started paying more attention to it during the pandemic.
Telemedicine basically uses the technology of telecommunications and information to provide clinic services and health consultation remotely. This means you no longer have to schedule an appointment at the hospital or wait in line to see the doctor in person for consultation, diagnosis or treatment.
The good news with telemedicine is, patients who live in rural areas, elderly citizens with limited transportation access, or those who can’t leave their homes can now speak to a physician virtually from the comfort of their own home.
How is telemedicine conducted?
The most basic method is via video call with a mobile phone or computer, just like how you do with your family and friends.
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Some healthcare providers offer portable telemedicine kits that come with computer and mobile medical devices, such as ECGs or vital signs monitors. In other cases, high resolution digital cameras are also made available for physicians to send digital imaging to specialists and patients.
Last but not least, healthcare practitioners can also use various innovative telemedicine software with features like data storage and live video conferencing to meet the different needs of patients.
How will telemedicine benefit you?
#1 You don’t have to live near a clinic to get easy access to medical professionals
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With easier accessibility, patients that reside in both urban cities or rural towns can connect to a provider easily. Caregivers can also use medical devices to monitor everything, including vitals, blood pressure and glucose levels.
#2 You can get a doctor’s diagnosis from home
Doctors can collect important medical data and diagnose a patient without them having to step foot into the clinic or hospital. Physicians can monitor patients in real-time and make necessary adjustments to their treatment when needed.
#3 You don’t have to sit through a jam just to drive to the hospital
Telemedicine can also help patients avoid wasting time in traffic to commute to the hospital or clinic, schedule a consultation during lunch breaks or after working hours without missing work, and assist in childcare or eldercare better.
Is telemedicine available in Malaysia?
The technology of telemedicine is no doubt still in its early stages in Malaysia due to its slow adoption here. However, as demand increases from today’s tech savvy generation due to its convenient and cost-saving features, we can foresee quick adoption coming our way.
One of the industry players that have kickstarted a larger move towards telemedicine is Pharmaniaga. As part of their latest offerings, the company is launching the first over-the-counter (OTC) vending service, RoyalePharma 24/7.
Image via Pharmaniaga
This is the pharmaceutical company’s first step to meet new consumer needs by improving the dispensing of OTC medication. You can look at it as a form of ATM for OTC products.
Since we’re already used to self-serving services like banking and food delivery, why not include the convenience of purchasing OTC essentials 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?
At RoyalePharma 24/7, consumers who are in urgent need of OTC medication to ease their discomfort or travel plans can get their preferred remedy at their convenience, even after office hours.
Pharmaniaga is now rolling out within the Klang Valley area. In the coming weeks, folks can find RoyalePharma 24/7 vending machines at high density locations, such as selected BHP petrol kiosks, universities, LRT stations, government clinics.
Each RoyalePharma 24/7 vending machine is strategically placed to ensure accessibility, convenience and safety for people in need of urgent OTC products. Just like the name suggests, it operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so you won’t have to worry no more!
Try to spot a RoyalePharma 24/7 vending machine today! For more info, visit their Facebook, Instagram or official website.