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One of the challenges that were born out of the COVID-19 pandemic was making healthcare accessible to people.

It's no secret that people have been leery about going outside amid the health crisis, and many

fear physically going to the hospitals or clinics, despite the safety protocols in place.

So, many opted to just delay checkups until the number of COVID-19 cases have decreased and the vaccinations are finished.

As we all know, it has been an emotional rollercoaster ride for everyone. It seems like one month we see the COVID cases decline then the next month we witness another surge.

But as the old saying goes, necessity is the mother of invention.

And the challenge imposed by lockdowns and increasing COVID cases has led experts in the field of medicine and technology to create an accessible, easy-to-use platform where people can safely consult their doctors from the comfort of their homes: the telemedicine app.

How have telemedicine apps helped ease the anxiety of patients during the pandemic? / Source: Pexels

During the past months of the pandemic, we've seen many telemedicine apps roll out.

And each time a new one is released, there seems to be a new helpful feature integrated to it, such as a tie-up with a drugstore that offers delivery service.

So, once your doctor gives your prescriptions, you won't need to step out of the house to buy medicine.

You can now simply order through the same app and have it delivered right to your doorstep.

Plus, some apps also have health monitoring systems integrated in them, to help you in your health and fitness journey.

mWell app, one of the telemedicine aps available in the Philippines / Source: mWell

During the virtual press conference of the mWell app, Dr. Lovely Garcia, an OB-GYN at the GreenCity Medical Center who has been in practice for 10 years, spoke of the benefits that telemedicine apps offer to both doctors and patients.

“It has truly given me an opportunity to practice my profession at the comfort of home, without having to travel, and with less exposure to COVID.

“As we all know, during this time of pandemic, telemedicine is truly a game-changer in this field.

“Because, as we all know, a lot of people wouldn't want to go outside because of fear of contracting the disease.

“So, one way to help them is through telemedicine.”

Dr. Garcia also shared a story about one of her patients that found the telemedicine app really helpful.

“I have this patient who has long been suffering from menstrual irregularity.

“But due to fear of going outside to the hospitals or clinics and contracting COVID, she wasn't able to consult since last year.”

Dr. Garcia said that through a telemedicine app, she was able to reach out to this particular patient and give her prescriptions and necessary advice.

“The patient felt very thankful, actually. Because according to her, if she was not able to consult through the platform, up until now she wouldn't know the appropriate medications that she would take.”

Dr. Garcia also emphasized that telemedicine apps also lessen the anxiety that most patients feel during the pandemic.

“And of course, if we are women in the reproductive age and we worry about our periods that would be causing us anxiety.

“So, in helping her, I also lessened her anxiety as well.

“And then through telemedicine she would be able to follow up din regularly.”

Moreover, telemedicine has made healthcare more accessible for people from all walks of life, and now doctors can also reach even those in remote areas.

“We want to make sure that everybody's included, that it works for everybody, no matter what your economic standing might be,” emphasized Manny V. Pangilinan, chairman of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, during the virtual press con.

Without a doubt, technology has played a major role in keeping us all connected and allowing us to continue our work, studies, and other important activities amid the pandemic.

One of the major breakthroughs, of course, is we can now look after our own health and well-being without leaving the house and getting the help we need with just one click.

So, if you need medical advice, don't hesitate to reach a doctor or other medical expert through your chosen telemedicine app today.

For more lifestyle content, head out to GMA's Lifestyle page.

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