eSanjeevani

eSanjeevani is an Indian government initiative that aims to provide online outpatient doctor consultation services to citizens. It was launched in 2019 and has played a significant role in providing healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The scheme has been implemented by the Union Health Ministry, and it has recently set a new record by delivering teleconsultation services to 10 crore beneficiaries. This article will provide an in-depth overview of the eSanjeevani initiative, its impact during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it has benefited citizens across India.

Background

The eSanjeevani initiative was launched in 2019 by the Union Health Ministry. The scheme aimed to provide online outpatient doctor consultation services to citizens across India. The platform was designed to be user-friendly and easy to access, providing patients with convenient and accessible healthcare services. The eSanjeevani OPD portal and system were developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and were integrated into the National Health Stack (NHS) as part of the Digital India initiative.

Impact during the COVID-19 pandemic

The eSanjeevani platform played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic in providing healthcare services to patients in their homes. With lockdowns and restrictions on movement in place, it was challenging for patients to access healthcare services. The eSanjeevani platform provided a solution by enabling patients to consult with doctors online, eliminating the need for physical visits to hospitals and clinics.

During the pandemic, the eSanjeevani platform witnessed an exponential growth in the number of consultations. From just 3,000 consultations per day in April 2020, the platform now delivers over 1.5 lakh consultations daily. The scheme was widely appreciated for its convenience and accessibility, and it helped reduce the burden on healthcare facilities.

Benefits to citizens

The eSanjeevani initiative has been a game-changer in the healthcare sector. It has provided citizens with access to quality healthcare services, regardless of their location. The platform has helped reduce the waiting time for consultations and has made it easier for patients to access specialist doctors.

The eSanjeevani platform has been widely adopted across India, with over 33 states and Union Territories implementing the service. It has been beneficial for patients living in remote areas, who previously had limited access to healthcare services. The platform has also enabled patients to receive consultations in their native languages, improving accessibility and reducing language barriers.