Phygital PHC: Case Diaries - 1, Digital Otoscope at Koparli, Vapi, Valsad, Gujarat
A patient Jayvardhan (29), complaining of excruciating ear pain, arrived for consultation at the Koparli Phygital PHC
Dr Sunitha Madhavan, the #telehealth ENT Specialist, directed the in-person PHC GNM-cum-Coordinator to examine the patient’s ear with the aid of a Digital Otoscope device. The diagnosis revealed a tiny insect stuck in the ear. (Image attached for reference.)
The doctor instructed the GNM to administer antibiotic drops in the patient’s affected ear. Since the medical officer of the concerned PHC was on a field visit, the telehealth ENT Specialist referred the patient to the nearest District Hospital for treatment.
At the Valsad District Hospital, Gujarat, the insect was removed from the ear canal and the ear was cleaned. The patient confirmed that he had no more pain after treatment.
REMARKS: Digital Otoscope has proven to enhance diagnostic accuracy in healthcare facilities. Its utilisation in our project has boosted patient confidence in attaining treatment from remote health care delivery mode.
NOTE: The Phygital PHC project is a Bayer Foundation initiative implemented with the support of the respective State Health departments.