The key technology for social distancing

As health systems, including the NHS, are being faced with the grave reality of the Coronavirus pandemic, it’s a time when certain technologies are being put to the test.

COVID-19 has seen the ban of public gatherings, sporting fixtures and concerts grind to a halt and put the world economy on the brink of recession.

In particular healthcare is being put to the test. How can patients be seen to with other health concerns by their GP while society shuts down in an effort to protect the most vulnerable?

One of the now simplest pieces of technology could be coming to the fore as telehealth can allow consultations to take place via video.

In the UK, Refero, which operates video calling for much of the public sector, has made its service free to support NHS Trusts, including GP surgeries and pharmacies, with their CEO Dan Worman describing it as a social and moral decision, rather than a business one.

“It’s very important that the public have access to medical professionals in the safest way possible for all of us, and video consultation is absolutely the best way to provide that. We feel very strongly that access to this should be immediate and free of charge to public services that are facing increased pressures currently.”

It hasn’t escaped those in office either, as the United States Congress instated an $8.3 billion lifting coverage restrictions for telehealth services for at risk populations, with Tyto Care is also reporting an increase in its remote examination device, to allow patients to self-examine and filter data back to medical professionals.  

On Monday, the UK government announced social distancing guidance. As well as urging the public to avoid large gatherings and to keep in touch via telecommunications, people are encouraged to use phone or online services to contact their GP or other aspects of the NHS.

While the race to develop tests to accurately diagnose the condition, as well as the urgent need to produce a vaccine continues in life sciences, giving patients reassurance and as much of a sense of normality by being able to see a doctor or nurse they trust is vital.

It’s also vital to efforts to "flatten the curve" of cases in the UK as they try and alleviate pressure on its health service by ensuring people don’t visit surgeries at a precarious time for public health. As its advantages become more apparent the more it is used, telehealth will inevitably become a vital part of health infrastructure.