Digital health technologies and telemedicine have tremendous potential in resolving some of the existing disparities in healthcare delivery by increasing access and improving the quality of care while decreasing costs. However, despite policy reforms that have now formalized the role of telemedicine in India, the pace at which it is establishing itself, especially in rural and remote areas, is not at par with available resources.

The penetration and acceptance of telemedicine in rural areas are still poor, while its use even in the urban area is far below its true potential. The problem is not limited to human resources, but includes insufficient awareness or challenges in accessing telemedicine services due to literacy, language or technological barriers among patients, as well as the non-availability of basic physical examination and laboratory parameters that aid in evidence-based clinical decision-making among physicians.

Appropriate use of digital technology and telemedicine can improve the access to specialist health services and reduce the tremendous burden on tertiary healthcare facilities. Also, the need for human touch is of prime importance in making telemedicine services more acceptable in rural settings.