Good response from doctors, specialists for 104-doctor teleconsultation system in AP
The round-the-clock 104 helpline number has emerged as a one-stop solution for all Covid-19 related issues in the state
VIJAYAWADA: As many as 3,567 doctors and 608 specialists have registered in the last one week for 104-doctor tele-consultation service in Andhra Pradesh that renders service to people fighting the Corona pandemic.
The virus in its second wave is spreading faster and the 104 helpline service was flooded with over 1, 45,121 calls in the last 20 days.
Speaking on the response system, the in-charge of the 104 call centre operations, nodal officer Babu Ahmed said, “We receive calls 24/7 for testing, treatment, vaccine and hospital allotment. We were able to admit around 22,877 patients to nearby hospitals in the last one month. In addition, we have around 3,567 doctors registered over the last one week, with 608 specialist doctors added to the facility to offer quick response and solution as regards bed, testing or treatment within three hours. These doctors will be linked to the patients of incoming calls from 104.”
Babu Ahmed said the calls received from people enquiring about the testing, vaccination and test results will be handled at the executive level. People who have symptoms and requiring consultation are handled by the doctors.
He said, “We have been providing training on Covid protocols to all doctors along with providing them 104 teleconsultation mobile applications.”
Babu Ahmed said this will be a continuous activity to reach out to as many people as possible and that the team is working round the clock. “In addition to this, we would like to decrease the pressure on the hospital in charges. Currently we have 1.2 lakh people under home isolation with mild symptoms. To these patients, we are also ensuring to make outgoing calls and connecting them to the available doctors.”
“This way, the patients who are home-isolated are able to get a better picture in tackling the virus themselves at home. Medicines and treatment that the doctors are prescribing through teleconsultation bring down the undue pressure on hospitals.”
Babu Ahmed said the AP government under the leadership of chief minister Jagan Mohan Reddy is strengthening the 104 helpline system and ensuring that the people received the help they need. The round-the-clock 104 helpline number has emerged as a one-stop solution for all Covid-19 related issues in the state,” he stressed.