Vaidya Tele-consultations in the wake of COVID-19 - Suggested guidelines for clinical Shalakya citing successful case studies.

Suggested guidelines for clinical Shalakya citing successful case studies.

Abstract

Tele-consultations in the wake of COVID-19 - Suggested guidelines for clinical Shalakya citing successful case studies.

Abstract:

Keywords Tele shalakya, medico legal,t ransmission of infection, video consultation.                                                                                             Tele medicines / tele Ayurveda  has been in vogue since few years and enhanced demand added importance during the pandemic both for easy accessibility and to prevent spread of infection.The field of Shalakya  is often at the forefront of technological advances in medicine including telemedicine and the use of  unique techniques.

WHO defines telemedicine as also Tele ophthalmology  ,speaks about its importance,limitations and it is the need of the hour.

 Ministry of AYUSH has advocated tele consultation and given guidelines also . This has empowered physicians and given guidelines to set precise practical approaches.

Advantages and limitations of tele Shalakya  are to be understood, accepted and published just as Tele ophthalmology.. Its easier for clinicians dealing with patients who have adopted and are familiar with principles and practices of Ayurveda.  During this pandemic prevention of transmission of infection from patient to clinicians is the biggest advantage.

Case series of shalakya, who have taken tele consultation during this pandemic are reported here :simple allergy in eyes, stye, injury to eye due to fall at home, bleeding in eye (probably eye strain or mild COVID)Assists in mitigating symptoms and  prevents spread  of infection.

    Tele ophthalmology, almost in vogue since the early 90s, today is popular for screening in rural areas and sharing the images seeking guidance on management and referring cases needing surgery of specific eye conditions. Shalakya tele consultation has limitations as visual acuity, intraocular pressure, retinal pathology cannot be visualized but can be overcome by adopting latest technologies like in Allopathy .