Applied Science Private University

Volume Volume 17, 2023 · Issue 1 · Open Access · Double-blind Peer-review

Hypothesis

Using Telemedicine in Saudi Arabia's Healthcare System During COVID-19 Pandemic

1 Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Albaha University, Saudi Arabia.

* Corresponding author: Abdullah Almilaibary ([email protected])

Published: 30 Jun 2023

Abstract

Background: The World Health Organization declared the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak a pandemic on March 11, 2020, citing more than 720,000 cases reported in over 203 countries by March 31, 2020. The response plan included early diagnosis, patient isolation, symptomatic monitoring of contacts, suspected and confirmed cases, and public health quarantine. The Ministry of Health (MOH) in Saudi Arabia faces pressure to develop and enhance healthcare services to meet the needs and expectations of the population, particularly those living in rural areas, due to significant challenges in the country's healthcare system. To limit the risk of transmission, telemedicine, especially video consultations, has been promoted and expanded. Telemedicine can enhance healthcare delivery in the absence of in-person visits in the current pandemic situation. In this study, the use of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic within Saudi Arabia's healthcare system is assessed.

KeywordsTelemedicineCOVID-19PandemicSaudi Arabia's healthcare system

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