[AP2-E1-1-03] Continuum of Care for Non-Communicable Diseases and Dialysis Services during COVID-19 Pandemic in Rural India: Role of Telehealth
COVID 19, Knowledge, Non-Communicable Disease, Continuum of Care, Telemedicine
COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in disruption to routine health services delivery as strict lockdowns were implemented in India. We assess the perceptions about COVID19, impact of the lockdown on access to health services and continuum of care for Non-Communicable Diseases among a cohort of adults in rural India. We conducted this mixed methods study, administered through a structured telephonic questionnaire and interview to determine the awareness, perceptions and their compliance to ongoing treatment schedules. Overall, 68% participants exhibited adequate knowledge of symptoms of COVID19, while 43% were not aware of the mode of transmission of the virus 822 (36.1%) participants reported at least one NCD condition. Among these, 115 (14%) missed their follow visit, 110 (13.4%) reported facing challenges in medication procurement and (11.6%) either developed new complaints or experienced worsening of pre-existing symptoms. 233 (28.5%) used a telemedicine facility and took telephonic advice from (private) physicians. Our findings imply the need for the future guidelines on adaptation of telehealth approaches within health systems to maintain continuum of care.