Coronavirus: TeleHEALTH services offer an enhanced solution to stemming the spread
April International Care members in the Asia region concerned about the coronavirus spread can now access a free medical consultation though April’s TeleHEALTH service
Operating through its partnership with Teladoc Health, TeleHEALTH allows policyholders to access a phone consultation with a qualified medical practitioner via the APRIL Easy Claim app – meaning that policyholders do not have to leave their home or workplace to see a doctor.
Regional CEO of APRIL International Care Asia Romain Di Meglio observes: “The new coronavirus outbreak has worried large numbers of people across Asia. Beyond the substantial resources being deployed to contain and control it, we believe it is our responsibility to contribute to the situation to the best of our capacities. Awareness, avoidance of panic effect and basic protective measures are key to resolving the situation. For any of our clients who have concerns, we have opened up our TeleHEALTH facility to offer a qualified medical opinion, which is just a call away. Whilst most will recover from flu like illnesses, we should always be especially vigilant when it comes to the elderly, people suffering from chronic conditions, newborns or pregnant women and this is where our TeleHEALTH facility might be particularly useful.”
Di Meglio also advises that in order to avoid infection, individuals should wash their hands often with soap and water, avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands and try to avoid close contact with people who are sick. “If you do fall ill, protect others from getting sick. Sensible precautions would include staying at home, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throwing the tissue away and washing your hands. If you have a fever, a cough and difficulty with your breathing, seek medical care early and inform the care provider of your travel history,” he added.
April’s timely offering is an extremely practical and innovative move given that many governments and healthcare professionals within and around China are working tirelessly to help contain – and ultimately end – the spread of the virus. More innovative solutions like this would go a long way in efforts to prevent further contamination by the coronavirus, as well as doing much in the way of improving patients’ wellbeing and overall morale.