Telemedicine for diabetes care in India during COVID19 pandemic and national lockdown period: Guidelines for physicians

Diabetes Metab Syndr. 2020 Jul-Aug;14(4):273-276. doi: 10.1016/j.dsx.2020.04.001. Epub 2020 Apr 4.

Abstract

Background and aims: In view of restrictions on mobility of patients because of COVID-19 pandemic, face-to-face consultations are difficult. We sought to study the feasibility of telemedicine in this scenario.

Methods: PubMed and Google Scholar search engines were searched using the key terms 'telemedicine', 'diabetes', 'COVID-19 up to 31st March 2020. In addition, existing guidelines including those by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW), Government of India, were accessed.

Results: We discuss evidence and general guidelines regarding role of telemedicine in patients with diabetes along with its utility and limitations.

Conclusions: Telemedicine is a useful tool for managing patients of diabetes during this lockdown period. However, there is limited data and further research is required.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Betacoronavirus*
  • COVID-19
  • Coronavirus Infections / epidemiology*
  • Diabetes Mellitus / therapy*
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Humans
  • India
  • Pandemics*
  • Pneumonia, Viral / epidemiology*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • PubMed
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Telemedicine* / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Telemedicine* / methods