Smita Sahay Kumar

Joint Secy, health ministry cautions on tech integration in healthcare, calls for social appraisal before adoption Speaking at the fourth edition of the ETHealthworld Healthcare Leaders Summit, Dr. Manashvi Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, stressed, "When we talk about technology, we have to be cognizant of the fact that it does have a social cost, so it is very important that we conduct a social appraisal of technology before putting it into action." He also emphasised, "While trying to bring down the cost of technology used in healthcare, it is extremely important to ensure that we don't venture into the realm of technological imperialism, digital stress, or mental health concerns." #Public_Health I #technologyintegration I #socialappraisal I #digitalhealth I #ClimateChange I #mentalhealth I #VUCA I Prathiba Raju Read more: https://lnkd.in/gnbQc2kY

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Health of India Summit 2024 Experts discussed evolving challenges and solutions for India's health sector, focusing on heart disease, cancer treatment, and health misinformation, at this year’s Health of India Summit held in New Delhi on December 3 by First Check, a health information platform. Session 6: Fireside Chat - The Right to Breathe - Air Pollution and Its Impact on Health Key takeaways: Air pollution remains a persistent issue, with cities consistently facing an AQI above 100, leading to long-term health consequences. Masks can significantly reduce the impact of pollution, potentially mitigating up to 95% of its harmful effects. The need for improved public transportation systems was emphasized to reduce emissions and combat air pollution. Despite ongoing efforts, air pollution has not been effectively addressed over the past 15 years, signaling the need for stronger action. Rajit Sengupta Down To Earth Apollo Hospitals Preeksha Malhotra

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Looking for Increase in Healthcare Expenditure for NHM and Other Initiatives in Budget 2024: Health Secy In the upcoming budget for 2024-25, the Health Ministry is anticipating increased support and expenditure for the National Health Mission, and other such healthcare initiatives, informed Apurva Chandra, Health Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), at sidelines of an event in Delhi. #Healthcare | #Expenditure | #Initiatives | #Upcoming | #Budget | #Healthministry | #Anticipating | #Increasedsupport | #Nationalhealthmission | #Healthcareinitiatives | #Anticipating | #Healthnews | #ApurvaChandra Read more:

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𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲: 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗡𝗜𝗧𝗜 𝗦𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 by Urvashi Prasad, Director NITI Aayog In our recent session on healthcare transformation, we delved into the initiatives and strategic frameworks that are reshaping the landscape of healthcare in India. Here are the key insights: NITI Aayog's Vision: Established to replace the Planning Commission, NITI Aayog emphasizes a 'bottom-up' approach to governance, fostering cooperative federalism and ensuring that states are equal partners in the nation's development. The insights highlighted the critical steps being taken towards a more inclusive, efficient, and holistic healthcare system in India. Let's continue to work together to create a healthier future for all. 🔗 Watch the full session recording here. Link in comments. #HealthcareInnovation #NITIAayog #PublicHealth #AyushmanBharat #DigitalHealth #PPP #HealthcareTransformation #IndiaHealthcare #PublicHealthcare

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The Case for Distributed and Integrated Healthcare in #India In the complex landscape of #healthcare, two seemingly contrasting principles, #distribution, and #integration, often vie for prominence. However, in the context of India's diverse and vast healthcare needs, embracing both is not just beneficial but necessary for ensuring comprehensive and accessible healthcare for all. Understanding the #Duality: India's population is not only large but also widely dispersed across urban and rural areas, with varying levels of access to healthcare facilities. Embracing a distributed approach involves decentralizing healthcare services, ensuring that even remote communities have access to basic medical care. This can be achieved through the establishment of #primary health centers, mobile clinics, #telemedicine services, and community health workers. By bringing healthcare closer to where people live, distribution addresses the challenge of accessibility, especially for those in underserved regions. On the other hand, integration emphasizes the seamless coordination of healthcare services across various levels and disciplines via a #tech #platform. In India, where #patients often seek care from multiple #providers and healthcare systems, integration becomes crucial for ensuring continuity of care, preventing duplication of efforts, and improving overall #efficiency. In India, where healthcare disparities are stark, the need for both distribution and integration is particularly evident. Rural areas, home to a significant portion of the population, often face challenges such as inadequate #infrastructure, shortage of healthcare professionals, and limited access to essential #services. A distributed healthcare system can bridge this gap by bringing basic healthcare services closer to rural communities, thereby improving health outcomes and reducing disparities. At the same time, India's urban centers grapple with issues such as overcrowded hospitals, long wait times, and fragmented care delivery. Here, #integration plays a vital role in streamlining healthcare processes, enabling smooth transitions between different levels of care, and fostering collaboration among various healthcare providers. Achieving Synergy: While distribution and integration may seem like opposing strategies, they are, in fact, complementary. A distributed healthcare system that is not integrated runs the risk of fragmentation, with disjointed services and inefficient use of resources. Similarly, an integrated healthcare system that is not distributed may struggle to reach #marginalized #populations, leaving them underserved. In the pursuit of universal healthcare coverage and improved health outcomes, India must embrace both distribution and integration as guiding principles. In this balanced approach lies the key to achieving health equity and advancing the well-being of all Indians.

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The 2017 National Health Policy (NHP) set ambitious goals to transform India's healthcare system. Our latest Knowledge Series report 'National Health Policy 2017 – Five years (2017-2022) – Goals vs Delivery' dives deep to analyze its progress from 2017-2022. Did we deliver its the promise of reducing premature mortality from Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD), Cancer, Diabetes or Chronic Respiratory Diseases (CRD) by 25% by 2025? To know more, download the report: https://lnkd.in/d4ShfHqr Empower yourself with the latest insights from Health Parliament's Knowledge Series. If you want to help transform healthcare, join Health Parliament! Download the app and become a member; Play Store: https://lnkd.in/gPAjkceh App Store: https://lnkd.in/gUAVyUmA #healthcare #India #NationalHealthPolicy #KnowledgeSeries #healthparliament #HP #publicpolicy #healthpolicy #programs #policy #FutureofHealth #HealthEquity #DigitalHealth #HealthcareReform #GlobalHealth #SustainableHealthcare #HealthcareIndia

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How does India deliver “Care” to rural communities through Digital Health? The mission of an ideal Digital Health Solution should be to deliver hospital-grade care, anytime and anywhere across India & the globe. The Solution should enable multiple health screens & deliver high-quality care regardless of whether the rural community has a local Doctor or a trained Nurse or whether they have power or WiFi, etc. While challenges like power & WiFi can be addressed through technology, how does one deliver health screens & diagnostics without the presence of a local Doctor or Nurse? Enter the ASHA Worker. THE most critical “Non-Technology” component of our Digital Health Solution. It is the Asha worker who ensures that all tasks related to creating a patient profile, capturing patient symptoms, and measuring patient vitals, are completed efficiently despite the unavailability of qualified medical professionals. The Asha workers also visit patient’s homes to provide door-to-door care – especially for older patients with mobility issues and for expectant mothers who may not be able to visit a clinic. And finally, there’s an emotional element to delivering good quality “patient care” that cannot be fulfilled by ANY technology, and which is warmly delivered by the Asha worker. The Asha workers also need to be provided with a digital health solution that has advanced telemedicine capabilities but is extremely easy to use. That was the design mantra for the RHEMOS Health Station. India’s smallest & easy-to-use rural care solution. It enables Asha workers to administer 60+ critical vitals, blood/urine & pre-natal tests in village PHCs. The Health Station can also be carried to a patient’s home to deliver high-quality care ensuring huge patient convenience. Once it measures vitals, it transmits test results to App & Cloud to enable remote Doctor interventions & treatment. RHEMOS also works offline if cellular networks are unavailable & enables local health screens and collects test results, which are all transmitted to cloud once the cellular network is restored. It is also designed to work on Battery & Bluetooth to ensure no dependence on power or WiFi. And finally, with the capability to measure 60+ vitals & bio-markers, it can be used by Asha workers to deliver comprehensive primary care, chronic care, prenatal care, NCD & Anaemia detection health camps, etc. In conclusion, it is the Asha workers that define the success of digital health & enable us to connect rural patients with remote doctors for treatment. They reduce our reliance on medical staff and drastically cut care delivery costs. They accelerate rural care implementations, and ensure easy access to affordable and high-quality care in remote and underserved rural communities, which also makes this a massively scalable initiative. Click to know more: https://lnkd.in/dWHqZsJZ #healthtech #medicaldevices #digitalhealth #telemedicine #medtech #remotehealthcare #healthcaremonitoring 

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FACT Hai… Gyan Nahi… Shift in Indian Health Story – and Long term Government Initiatives. In recent years, the Indian government has introduced significant reforms to strengthen the healthcare sector. A key initiative, Ayushman Bharat, aims to enhance the health system comprehensively from primary to tertiary care, marking a shift from vertical health programs. Its first component focuses on building a next-generation primary healthcare network through Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) to promote good health and enable early disease detection, particularly for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which are rising in India. These HWCs prioritize disease prevention and extensive screening, offering sustainable solutions to reduce disease burden and minimize out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, which currently make up more than 60% of health costs. Additionally, the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) seeks to digitize health records and create an efficient system for managing and exchanging health data. This initiative will help develop registries of healthcare providers, laboratories, and pharmacies while supporting clinical decision-making and enabling services like telemedicine. By improving transparency and efficiency, the NDHM is expected to unlock over USD 200 billion in economic value over the next decade, providing patients with better access to healthcare information, provider credentials, and pricing. Source: https://lnkd.in/dcT3HaXm

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🎙 Podcast 🎙 Mirai Chatterjee of SEWA Bharat talking about issues on the ground as we discuss the state of #health and #healthcare in #Gujarat 🎧 Tune into the full episode here- https://lnkd.in/dMyeEtqR

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Listen to Ajoy Sharma of Health Dalaan speak on the changing trend of obesity in India, and what you need to do (easy steps!) with explanation to start living a healthy life. https://lnkd.in/efSy9Sie #neup #founderfocus #interview #health #worklifebalance

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Health of India Summit 2024 Experts discussed evolving challenges and solutions for India's health sector, focusing on heart disease, cancer treatment, and health misinformation, at this year’s Health of India Summit held in New Delhi on December 3 by First Check, a health information platform. Session 5: Health Matters, Fact Matters: Tackling Health Misinformation Key takeaways: The session emphasized the importance of social media literacy, particularly in the digital age, to combat health misinformation. Experts highlighted the need to address common misconceptions, such as myths about HIV transmission and the effects of bodybuilding protein powders. A panellist stated that while the internet can provide information, it cannot replace professional medical advice, as emphasized by a general physician and ex-army veteran. The role of platforms like Google in combating health misinformation was discussed, with a focus on collaboration with policymakers and health organizations. Australia’s ban on social media use for children under 16 was praised, with calls for similar measures in India to protect younger audiences. Jadav Sarita UNESCO Dr. Divleen J. Google Health Gita Prakash A Mariyam Alavi DataLEADS Médecins Sans Frontières(MSF) South Asia

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ATP HealthLine: Revolutionizing Healthcare in Gujarat In a landscape where navigating healthcare can be overwhelming, ATP HealthLine is emerging as a revolutionary force, transforming how patients access and interact with healthcare services in Gujarat. By acting as a bridge between patients and healthcare providers, ATP HealthLine is addressing some of the most pressing challenges in the industry: lack of accessible information, financial constraints, and the daunting task of finding the right doctor or hospital. The Challenge India's healthcare system, though rapidly advancing, remains a complex maze for many patients. With an abundance of hospitals, specialists, and treatment options, patients often struggle to make informed decisions. The lack of transparency regarding costs, treatment outcomes, and quality of care further complicates this process, leaving many patients overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. ATP HealthLine’s Revolutionary Approach ATP HealthLine is changing the game by providing a comprehensive, personalized service that guides patients through every step of their healthcare journey. By offering transparent, reliable information about doctors, hospitals, and treatment options, ATP HealthLine empowers patients to make informed decisions tailored to their specific needs. The service also ensures that patients are aware of and can access financial aid programs, such as the PMJAY scheme, reducing the financial burden of healthcare. Moreover, ATP HealthLine’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that even those in rural and semi-urban areas have access to quality healthcare, effectively bridging the gap between patients and the care they need. By fostering partnerships with hospitals and healthcare providers, ATP HealthLine is creating a more connected, patient-centric healthcare ecosystem. The Impact ATP HealthLine is not just a service; it's a movement towards a more equitable and accessible healthcare system. By simplifying access to healthcare and ensuring that every patient can find the right care at the right time, ATP HealthLine is making a lasting impact on the healthcare industry in Gujarat. This revolutionary approach is setting a new standard for patient care, one that prioritizes the well-being and empowerment of every individual. In a time when healthcare is more critical than ever, ATP HealthLine is leading the charge in making healthcare truly accessible to all. This revolution is not just about connecting patients with doctors; it's about transforming lives and reshaping the future of healthcare in India.

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The COVID-19 pandemic served as a reality check for healthcare providers worldwide, highlighting the value of a robust healthcare sector. Currently, the government of India is prioritizing healthcare. With the launch of national public health initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and the National Digital Health Mission, India has taken a step forward to digitalize healthcare. Despite these advancements, healthcare still faces several challenges, including: 1️⃣ Cost-effectiveness 2️⃣ Shortage of health workers 3️⃣ Access to care 4️⃣ Patient safety 5️⃣ Adapting to new technology 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐬 𝐄𝐳𝐞𝐑𝐱 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬? A strong healthcare sector is one of the pillars forming an economy's foundation. EzeRx, a leading innovator in non-invasive diagnostic solutions, is contributing to the landscape of healthcare both nationally and globally. Here’s how we are strengthening the healthcare sector: 1️⃣ Making Healthcare Affordable: Medical care is becoming increasingly costly, especially in developing countries like India, where the majority of people do not have health insurance. EzeRx is constantly developing cutting-edge devices to make healthcare cost-effective. For instance, EzeCheck, India's first ICMR-RMRCBB-validated, blood and pain-free hemoglobin screening device, is very affordable and can screen a large sector within a short period. 2️⃣ Bridging The Gap: There is a shortage of qualified healthcare professionals globally. India hasn't achieved the 1:1000 doctor-patient ratio set by the World Health Organization. EzeRx is creating technologically advanced and accurate devices that can be used without professional training. 3️⃣ Reaching Remote Corners: Geographical differences can be an obstacle to swift healthcare delivery. People in rural areas often have to travel long distances for quality medical care. EzeRx is reaching even the remote corners with advanced technology, giving rural areas quick access to preventive healthcare and health management. 4️⃣ Providing Patient Safety: At EzeRx, patient safety is our top priority. We understand the sensitivity of medical records, which is why we maintain strict confidentiality and never share them without consent. Our implementation of electronic health records (EHR) aims to improve patient convenience and care. 5️⃣ Empowering Providers: The healthcare landscape is being revolutionized by technology. As a leading innovator in non-invasive diagnostic solutions, EzeRx is keeping providers up-to-date with the latest advancements. In conclusion, EzeRx is revolutionizing healthcare by creating solutions that prioritize accessibility, affordability, and patient safety. Through our innovations and commitment, we aim to make a positive impact on the global healthcare scenario. 🌍💉🏥

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Recently, Google announced integrating Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) IDs into Google Wallet, along with powerful AI-driven tools for diagnostics and early disease detection. With the potential to touch millions, this initiative is set to make healthcare more accessible, connected, and efficient across India. But like any bold step forward, it comes with both exciting advantages and real challenges. Here’s a look at both sides: 📌Advantages: 🔹Enhanced Accessibility Access to digital health records anytime, anywhere – a true boon for timely medical decisions and emergency responses. 🔹Streamlined Data Management A seamless digital experience where all health records are centralized, reducing dependency on physical files. 🔹Improved Preventive Care AI-based diagnostic tools can help detect diseases early, potentially transforming health outcomes, especially in underserved areas. 🔹Empowered Patients With more control over their health data, patients can become more proactive in managing their health. 🔹Scalability Google’s reach, combined with India’s ABHA system, could mean better healthcare infrastructure for millions of users. 📌Challenges: 🔹Privacy Concerns Centralizing sensitive health data raises valid concerns around data security and privacy. 🔹Data Standardization Ensuring health records are integrated correctly from various sources is essential to maintain data quality and reliability. 🔹Digital Divide Not everyone has smartphone access or digital literacy, potentially widening care gaps. 🔹Trust in Big Tech With global tech companies handling health data, some may question how their information is used. 🔹Implementation Hurdles Effective rollout, especially in rural areas, may require extensive resources, training, and infrastructure upgrades. This initiative is a pivotal step forward, but as always, there’s a need for balanced, responsible implementation. With the right safeguards and outreach, it could redefine healthcare access for millions in India. 💬 What are your thoughts on this blend of tech and healthcare? Is this the future we need, or are there other factors to consider? #IndianHealthcare #HealthTech #ABDM #AIinHealthcare #GoogleInnovations #DataPrivacy

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🚀 Thrilled to share a groundbreaking piece penned by Dinesh Chauhan titled "𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀: 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗴𝗻𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗮." This article from Asian Hospital and Healthcare Management is a must-read for anyone passionate about transforming healthcare accessibility! 🌍💉 Healthcare inequalities persist, especially in countries like India. But amidst challenges, there's hope. Mr. Chauhan's article explores how leveraging diagnostics can revolutionize healthcare delivery, ensuring no one is left behind. 🏥✨ From discussing innovative diagnostic technologies to highlighting successful case studies, this article offers actionable insights for stakeholders across the healthcare spectrum. It's not just about identifying problems; it's about implementing solutions! 💡 In a country as diverse as India, healthcare disparities are a significant concern. This article delves into how diagnostics can serve as a powerful tool in ensuring equitable access to quality care for all. From leveraging technology to addressing infrastructure challenges, Mr. Chauhan offers valuable insights for industry professionals and policymakers alike. 🏥💬 Check out the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gnNVu8mw #healthcare #diagnostics #healthcaredisparities #India #accessiblecare #publichealth #healthcareinnovation #telemedicine #AHHM #AsianHHM #diagnosticservices #healthcareservices

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Milestone moment: #nha initiative of Scan and Share for quick out patient registration in health facilities has now facilitated 4 crore out patient consultations reducing time taken for registration, preventing data entry errors and enhancing availability of health records digitally. #digitalhealth #abdm #ayushmanbharat

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Exciting News: Cartula Health India Partners with BCCI India! 🚀 We are thrilled to announce that Cartula Health India has recently formalized a groundbreaking partnership with BCCI India, marking a significant milestone in our journey towards revolutionizing healthcare in India. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to providing cutting-edge health solutions and leveraging technology to enhance the well-being of individuals across the nation. Here’s what this partnership entails: 1. Comprehensive Health Screenings for Cricketers: Through this partnership, Cartula Health India will provide comprehensive health screenings for cricketers at all levels, ensuring their optimal health and peak performance on the field. Utilizing our advanced diagnostic tools and telehealth services, we aim to offer timely and accurate health assessments. 2. State-of-the-Art Medical Support: Cartula Health India will offer state-of-the-art medical support during cricket tournaments and training camps. Our team of expert healthcare professionals will be on standby to provide immediate medical assistance, ensuring the safety and well-being of players. 3. Health and Wellness Programs: Together with BCCI India, we will develop and implement holistic health and wellness programs tailored for cricketers. These programs will focus on physical fitness, mental health, and nutritional guidance, fostering a culture of overall wellness within the cricket community. 4. Technological Integration: We will integrate our innovative health technologies with BCCI India’s existing systems, creating a seamless and efficient healthcare management platform. This integration will enhance data-driven decision-making and personalized care for every player. 5. Community Health Initiatives: Our partnership extends beyond the cricket pitch. Cartula Health India and BCCI India are committed to launching community health initiatives aimed at promoting healthy living among fans and the general public. These initiatives will include health camps, awareness campaigns, and educational workshops. We believe that this partnership will set new benchmarks in sports healthcare and inspire other organizations to prioritize health and wellness. A special thank you to the dedicated teams at both Cartula Health India and BCCI India for making this partnership a reality. We look forward to a successful and impactful collaboration that will benefit not only cricketers but also the wider community. Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this exciting journey together! #Healthcare #Cricket #Partnership #Innovation #Wellness #CartulaHealthIndia

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Exploring the potential of telemedicine for improved primary healthcare in India: a comprehensive review Introduction With a significant shortage of healthcare providers in primary care, particularly in rural regions, telemedicine offers a promising solution to bridge this gap in India, enhancing access to healthcare services.1 Telemedicine is ideally suited to overcome the challenges of healthcare delivery in these areas, especially for primary care settings.2 Primary care physicians, as frontline healthcare providers, offer initial and continuous medical care for patients across all ages. They serve as the first point of contact for medical treatment, diagnosing and treating a broad spectrum of illnesses and injuries, managing chronic diseases, and promoting preventive health practices. While research on the effectiveness of telemedicine interventions in India, especially in rural and remote locations, remains sparse,3,4 the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored telemedicine’s capacity to deliver primary care services effectively while enforcing social distancing and minimizing the risk of infection.5 What is lacking is a bird’s eye overview of how telemedicine has been used in primary care research in India.6–8 Furthermore, it is essential to delineate the barriers to telemedicine implementation and to assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with telemedicine in primary healthcare lancet 

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