The field of telemental healthcare received an upswing this year, with the central government's launch of the National Tele-Mental Health Program (NTMPH).

The launch is an encouraging change in following the COVID epidemic. Refusing to participate in social networks, being forced into isolation, the loss of loved ones, and being threatened with losing work security are all post-COVID issues that have had devastating psychological impacts.

But, mental health problems are not only personal problems. Studies have shown that there is a significant link between mental health problems and the economic health of a country. One possible explanation is the fact that poor health leads to lower productivity, which adversely affects companies and, in turn, and the economy as a whole. Unsurprisingly, mental illness is thought to cost the global economy an estimated $2*5 trillion in 2010, an amount that is expected to increase to an astonishing six trillion dollars by the year 2030. India alone is expected to suffer an estimated economic deficit of US$1.03 trillion. 1.03 trillion because of mental health issues according to The World Health Organization (WHO).

Although the actions plans and research shed some hope for the possibility of telemental health care however, it's not without its own set of difficulties.

The challenges in Telemental Health
Privacy
One of the most significant challenges in utilizing the telemental health system is privacy. Although privacy is an essential element in all medical appointments, however, when it comes to mental health concerns there is a lot of social stigmas that are associated with the practice. If someone chooses to contact a mental health professional to seek help, it usually happens in a discreet manner. The lack of an area that is private is an issue considering that the majority of Indian families have a joint family system. An area that is secure and safe is essential in order to make sure that patients are able to access telemental health services in full.

Preference for in-person treatment
Despite the accessibility of online care, there are some who prefer to receive care in person. This is due to the fact that mental health problems are more vulnerable. Being able to share your concerns in the presence of another can provide the warmth of human interaction, whereas the virtual meeting may appear distant and cold. It is important to keep in mind that the majority of people are forced to remain in a setting that could lead to mental health decline. In-person, the care provider ensures patients are part of a supportive group, and in a place that is accepting of their concerns.

This is a preference that comes at the expense of patients utilizing mental health services, as well as the telemental health professionals.

Digital Literacy as well as Networking Problems
Utilizing telemental health apps means that patients require an understanding of technology. India particularly faces a large demographic of digitally challenged people, which amounts to 80 percent out of 1.4 billion individuals. Digital literacy can get hindering the effective application of health telemedicine services.

Another issue that is glaring is connectivity. While there is an equivalent of 81.3 percent of the population, the access rate for India remains at 47% by 2021. This means that over fifty percent of India's population do lack access to the Internet. Since most telemental health care services are delivered via the web, a significant percentage of people are not able to access it because of the low connectivity.

Strategies to overcome the Obstacles
The issues facing the telemedicine sector in the implementation of its services are usually wide. Here are some strategies that we can employ to overcome the obstacles.

Information and Awareness about mental health
A country in the developing world such as India comes with its very own social stigmas in relation to mental health problems. Superstitions and myths hinder accurate diagnostics and treatments. Inspiring awareness through programs to everyone of all ages as well as introducing mental health-related issue awareness in the curriculum of schools and dispelling the myths that surround mental health care can assist in tackling this issue to a great extent.

More connectivity
India is a country in transition and is still advancing towards a fully connected society. Connecting better networks is a slow and slow process but it could lead to substantial transformations. With improved connectivity, mental health services are able to reach people in remote locations and those who have mobility limitations.

Digital Literacy
The statistics on digital literacy in India as previously mentioned are not encouraging. Although there are plenty of smartphone users according to the stats not many are proficient in anything other than the essential functions. The inclusion of digital literacy in the curriculum at school and using social channels to connect with the elderly population can improve the level of digital literacy. It is crucial to take advantage of the most advanced features of electronic health care.

Application for Telemedicine Design to support Telemental Health
Telemedicine applications are programs designed specifically for the purpose of dispersing virtual medical assistance. It is a broad-based application designed for a variety of kinds of users. It offers specific interfaces for doctors, patients medical staff, pharmacists, healthcare personnel and administrative staff. Each interface comes with its own functions and when combined give users a seamless experience.

The app for telemedicine includes features such as AI-powered automation, which allows chatbots, as well as other daily activities. Business intelligence and data analytics provide useful insights to assist in making better decisions. ERP capabilities of the telemedicine application aid in the management of business and administrative activities. When tailored to the specific requirements of a hospital it can be an effective platform for medical care via virtual technology.

The Final Words
Making a telemedicine app is an important business decision. A reputable Telemedicine App Development firm will offer the essential features to meet your particular requirements, with 24*7 SLA customer service and have the expertise and a proven track record with the most experienced experts.

EMed HealthTech is a leading company that offers affordable, scalable, and customized telemedicine app development services to healthcare facilities of any size. Our apps for healthcare have proven track records in maximizing the efficiency of operations. Contact us today to discuss your requirements for developing an app for telemedicine. requirements.