In early April 2020, insurer AIA Thailand in collaboration with True Digital Group, a subsidiary of leading telecommunications firm, True Corporation and hospital operator Samitivej launched a free telehealth initiative called “Virtual COVID-19 Clinic by AIA | True Digital Group | SAMITIVEJ”. This provides a teleconsultation service tailored to those with symptoms for COVID-19 or who are at high risk of the disease. These high risk categories include people travelling back from high risk countries or having contact with high risk people.
The consultation service is free of charge and available at any time on all days of the week. If the doctor prescribes medication during the online consultation, Samitivej Hospital will prepare the prescription at a 20% discount to normal charges and deliver it for free.
Thailand imposed a “State of Emergency” which includes movement/travel restrictions since 26 March and on 28 April, the restrictions were extended to 31 May 31. As countries seek to control the spread of infections, telemedicine is playing an increasingly important role. Telemedicine channels have also been introduced in other countries in the region, such as Malaysia and the Philippines, in response to the COVID-19 outbreak and lockdowns imposed in response to it.
(Sources: Bangkok Post; Healthcare IT News)
