The COVID-19 pandemic: an opportunity to strengthen telemedicine in low and middle-income countries

Abstract

During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic the healthcare systems of several countries came under strain and were even crippled, especially in LMICs, necessitating the exploration of alternate mechanisms for scaling-up healthcare services. Telemedicine can be an invaluable modality for complementing standard modes of pediatric healthcare delivery, not only during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, but also for reducing the inequities that exist in access and delivery of pediatric healthcare in LMICs. A well-coordinated approach in health policy, development of infrastructure, and effective community participation is required for effective integration of pediatric telemedicine in LMICs healthcare systems.