Telemedicine Revolutionizes Healthcare Access in Pakistan Amid Epidemics
Islamabad, Monday, 29 September 2025.
Telemedicine has improved healthcare delivery in Pakistan, especially during epidemics like COVID-19. 76% of healthcare professionals support its expansion, highlighting the need for better infrastructure.
Expanding Telemedicine Infrastructure
The necessity for expanding telemedicine infrastructure in Pakistan is underscored by the high demand for remote healthcare services, particularly in times of health crises such as epidemics. A significant 76% of healthcare professionals in Pakistan express a favorable attitude towards the adoption of telemedicine, emphasizing the urgent need for infrastructural improvements [1]. The current infrastructure, while beneficial, requires enhancements to effectively meet the needs of rural populations, who are often underserved in traditional healthcare setups [1].
Addressing Rural Healthcare Challenges
In rural Pakistan, telemedicine has become an indispensable tool in bridging the healthcare access gap. Organizations like the ChildLife Foundation have been instrumental in establishing Telemedicine Satellite Centers, which provide remote healthcare services to these regions [2]. These initiatives aim to ensure that no child is more than 30 minutes away from quality emergency care, highlighting the critical role of telemedicine in reaching underserved populations [2].
Cultural and Gender Dynamics in Telemedicine
Cultural constraints significantly impact healthcare delivery in Pakistan, where 80% of medical doctors are women, but only 40% practice due to societal norms [3]. Initiatives by organizations such as Sehat Kahani have turned these constraints into opportunities by employing women doctors who work from home to provide telemedicine services, thus addressing both cultural barriers and healthcare access issues [3]. This model not only empowers women but also expands the healthcare workforce available through telemedicine [3].
Impact during Epidemics
Telemedicine’s role becomes even more critical during epidemics, such as COVID-19, influenza, and cholera, where traditional healthcare facilities are overwhelmed. The technology allows for remote consultations and monitoring, reducing the burden on physical healthcare centers while maintaining continuous care for patients [1][2]. As telemedicine infrastructure continues to grow, it holds the potential to transform healthcare delivery in Pakistan, ensuring that quality care is accessible to all, irrespective of geographic and economic barriers [1][2][3].