Government expands digital health push as teleconsultation services see steady growth

New Delhi: The Centre is stepping up efforts to expand digital health services across the country as teleconsultation platforms continue to see rising use among patients seeking medical advice without visiting hospitals.

Officials from the Union Health Ministry said telemedicine services under the government backed eSanjeevani platform have recorded a steady increase in consultations, particularly from rural and semi urban regions where access to specialist doctors remains limited.

Launched to support remote healthcare delivery, the platform allows patients to consult doctors through online video or audio sessions. Health authorities say the service has helped reduce travel time and costs for patients while also easing pressure on outpatient departments in hospitals.

Government data indicates that millions of teleconsultations have already been conducted through the platform, with several states actively promoting the service through primary health centres and community health facilities.

The expansion of digital health infrastructure is part of the broader push to strengthen healthcare delivery using technology. Officials say telemedicine, electronic health records and digital health platforms are expected to play a larger role in improving access to healthcare services in the coming years.