INDIAN ARMY LAUNCHES E-SEHAT TELE-CONSULTANCY, ENHANCING HEALTHCARE FOR VETERANS

The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) has launched the Electronic Services e-Health Assistance and Tele-consultation (E-SeHAT) module on 30^th July 2024. The E-SeHAT Tele-consultancy would enable ECHS beneficiaries in obtaining online Tele-consultation for medical treatment from their homes without visiting the ECHS Polyclinic. The module aims to provide health care services through safe and structured video based clinical consultations. The pilot project has been launched today at 12 ECHS Polyclinics including remote locations of Baramulla, Imphal, Churachandpur, Dimapur and Aizawal. The 12 ECHS Polyclinics tele-consulted remotely located ECHS beneficiary ex-servicemen before its pan India Roll Out planned in November 2024. The inaugural pilot testing was witnessed by Major General Manoj Natarajan, Managing Director, Central Organisation Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme at Imphal ECHS Polyclinic.

The module adheres to telemedicine practice guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in consultation with NITI AAYOG of March 2020. To ensure seamless implementation and expansion of the project, IT hardware and equipment have been provided to all 427 ECHS Polyclinics, and staff have been trained to offer online medical advice. Future phases will include pre-consultation vital checks and home delivery of medicines and referral to empaneled hospitals by the Medical Officers.

The E-SeHAT initiative aligns with the Digital India vision of the Government of India aimed at promoting digital inclusivity and efficiency in public services. This pioneering effort will transform healthcare delivery for veterans, ensuring timely and quality medical attention from the comfort of their homes.