Tripura State Medical Council’s Guidelines on Telemedicine Practice

Telemedicine has become an essential part of healthcare, especially in areas where medical facilities are limited. Tripura State Medical Council (TSMC) has introduced specific guidelines to ensure that doctors and patients can use telemedicine safely and effectively. These guidelines aim to promote ethical practice, protect patient rights, and provide a clear framework for medical professionals.

Key Objectives of TSMC’s Telemedicine Guidelines

• Patient Safety: Ensure secure and accurate diagnosis and treatment.
• Ethical Standards: Maintain professional conduct and confidentiality.
• Legal Clarity: Define the responsibilities of medical practitioners.
• Technological Support: Promote the use of safe and reliable platforms.

Types of Telemedicine Services Recognized by TSMC

Service Type	Description
Video Consultation	Real-time interaction between doctor and patient using video calling platforms.
Audio Consultation	Voice-based communication without video, used for follow-ups or minor issues.
Text Messaging	Exchange of health information via SMS, email, or chat apps.
Remote Monitoring	Use of devices to track patient health data and share it with doctors.

Eligible Medical Practitioners

• Registered Doctors: Only those enrolled in the State Medical Register can offer telemedicine.
• Licensed Professionals: Doctors must hold valid and active licenses under the Indian Medical Council Act.
• Trained in Telemedicine: Completion of telemedicine training or certification is recommended.

Conditions for Telemedicine Practice

Condition	Details
Informed Consent	Doctor must get clear consent from the patient before beginning consultation.
Patient Identification	Name, age, and location of the patient must be recorded.
Doctor Identification	Full name, registration number, and contact details must be shared with the patient.
Medical Records	Proper documentation of interaction must be maintained and stored securely.
Prescription Protocol	Only drugs listed under the permitted category can be prescribed through telemedicine.
Emergency Cases	The doctor must get clear consent from the patient before beginning consultation.

Prescription Guidelines under TSMC

Drug Category	Guideline
List O Medicines	Safe over-the-counter drugs that can be prescribed in any consultation.
List A Medicines	Can be prescribed during first-time video consultations by a registered doctor.
List B Medicines	Suitable for follow-ups when prescribed earlier for the same condition.
Prohibited Drugs	Schedule X drugs and narcotics must not be prescribed via telemedicine.

Dos for Practitioners According to TSMC

• Inform Patient: Share consultation details and the doctor’s identity.
• Maintain Records: Store consultation details, prescriptions, and consent forms securely.
• Use Approved Platforms: Choose secure, encrypted apps or software for communication.
• Assess Appropriately: Provide care only after gathering enough information from the patient.
• Limit Prescriptions: Prescribe only when there is adequate understanding of the patient’s condition.

Don’ts for Practitioners According to TSMC

• Ignore Consent: Never proceed without verbal or written patient consent.
• Prescribe Illegally: Avoid prescribing restricted or habit-forming drugs online.
• Skip Documentation: Always maintain detailed and accurate medical records.
• Use Unverified Tools: Avoid using social media or unapproved platforms for consultations.
• Bypass Diagnosis: Do not recommend treatment without understanding the full patient history.

Patient Rights under TSMC Telemedicine Guidelines

Right	Explanation
Right to Privacy	Patient data and consultation details must remain confidential.
Right to Consent	No consultation or treatment can begin without patient approval.
Right to Refuse	Patients can opt out of telemedicine and request physical consultation.
Right to Information	Patients have the right to know about the doctor’s credentials and treatment plan.

Role of Technology in Telemedicine

• Secure Platforms: Use of encrypted tools ensures privacy and data protection.
• Remote Tools: Devices like digital stethoscopes and pulse oximeters support accurate monitoring.
• Data Storage: Cloud-based systems help in maintaining secure medical records.
• Real-time Connectivity: Video and voice technologies help replicate in-person consultations.

Training and Awareness Initiatives by TSMC

• Workshops: Organized for doctors to learn about telemedicine protocols.
• E-Learning: Online modules to support continuous learning and updates.
• Public Awareness: Informing citizens about safe telemedicine usage through local media and government apps.

Challenges Addressed by the Guidelines

Challenge	TSMC’s Solution
Data Breach Risks	Promotion of secure platforms and patient consent requirements.
Unqualified Practice	Restriction of telemedicine to only registered and licensed medical professionals.
Improper Prescriptions	Clear listing of permitted drugs and conditions for prescription.
Lack of Training	Introduction of structured training modules for doctors in telehealth communication.

Feedback and Dispute Resolution Mechanism

• Complaint Portal: Patients can file grievances through the state health department’s portal.
• Doctor Review Panel: Complaints against practitioners are handled by a disciplinary board.
• Timely Response: TSMC ensures that all issues are addressed within a defined timeframe.

Future Vision of Telemedicine in Tripura

• Rural Expansion: Broader reach of telemedicine to remote villages and tribal areas.
• AI Integration: Use of artificial intelligence for improved diagnosis and patient care.
• Policy Updates: Regular revision of guidelines to keep up with technological changes.
• Digital Literacy: Training for both doctors and patients to comfortably use telemedicine tools.

Final Thoughts

Telemedicine is shaping the future of healthcare in Tripura. The Tripura State Medical Council’s well-structured guidelines help ensure that medical services remain professional, legal, and ethical. By following these rules, doctors can offer timely care and patients can receive quality treatment from the comfort of their homes. As technology advances, these guidelines will continue to protect both medical practitioners and the public.