The COVID-19 pandemic has vastly changed the way we live, and one of the most visible transformations has been the increased use of healthcare facilities. From getting tested and seeking initial treatment for COVID-19 to consulting for other illnesses, people have been reaching out to doctors more often than usual.
Due to lockdowns and physical distancing measures, an alternative approach to access medical support has been via online appointments and techniques. Virtual healthcare is widely dependent on replacing in-person services with extended technological solutions, such as video conferences, call and text-based appointments and healthcare mobile apps.
According to the Canadian Medical Association (CMA), younger groups are more likely to opt for virtual check-ups to access mental health services. CMA's study also points that over 50 per cent of people aged between 18 to 34 years will likely use a telehealth service from mental health practitioners. It is also important to digitalize health records so that a patient is not subjected to improper treatment based on incomplete history. According to reports, digitalizing health records will be a tedious task, especially in remote areas.