Awareness, Willingness, And Practices Of Telemedicine For Management Of Selected Chronic Diseases Amongst Patients Attending NCD Clinic At An Urban Health Centre In Raigad District, Maharashtra.

Abstract

Background:
Telemedicine involves the use of electronic communication technologies to deliver and support healthcare services when distance separates patients and providers. As chronic diseases continue to be major contributors to global mortality, disability, and healthcare expenditure, continuous monitoring and accessible care remain essential. Telemedicine offers a potential solution, especially in resource-limited settings.

Objectives:
The study aims to assess patients’ awareness, willingness, and current practices regarding the use of telemedicine. It also seeks to identify factors that contribute to their unwillingness or limited utilization of telemedicine services.

Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at an Urban Health Centre in Raigad District, Maharashtra, involving 130 patients above 30 years of age registered under the Non-Communicable Disease clinic. A pre-validated questionnaire, administered in Marathi and Hindi, was used for data collection. Socio-economic status was categorized using the Revised BG Prasad Classification, and data were analyzed using SPSS Version 26.

Results:
* 54.2% of participants owned a smartphone.
* 82.2% were unaware of telemedicine.
* 81.5% lived within 10 km of the Urban Health Centre.

Conclusion:
The study highlights the need to improve awareness, address barriers, and enhance patient engagement to maximize the benefits of telemedicine for chronic disease management in resource-limited areas like Raigad District.

Key words: Telemedicine, Urban, Willingness, Chronic Diseases