Patients at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi can now pay a virtual visit to their doctor as part of efforts to promote the country’s stay-home measures and help contain the spread of Covid-19.
Forward-thinking chiefs at the Al Maryah Island hospital have launched an app that allows members of the public to discuss medical concerns with its specialists – without leaving their homes.
The initiative is in line with a nationwide strategy to encourage physical distancing and reduce the risk of infection.
By using the virtual visit option, patients who do not require physical examinations can see the doctor and discuss health concerns using their smartphones, tablets or computers.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for people to practise physical distancing while still being able to access the care they need,” said Dr Madhu Sasidhar, chief medical officer at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.
“By leveraging innovative digital technology, virtual visits will enable patients to see the doctor quickly and easily, while protecting their own health and that of our patients, caregivers and the wider community.”
The Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Health Portal – which enables patients to hold a video conference with their regular doctor – is available to download on Google Play Store and the App Store.
Once registered, patients can check in up to 24 hours before their appointment.
A video link is then accessible 30 minutes before the scheduled appointment time.
Virtual visits are available for all outpatients across all medical specialisms at the hospital, providing the appointment does not require a physical examination.
Medication is also delivered to patients’ homes, removing the need to visit the hospital pharmacy.
“Living with illness can be difficult and disruptive to people’s lives, particularly during a global health crisis such as the one we face today,” Dr Sasidhar said.
“Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is striving to ensure that everyone can get the care they need, when and where they need it, at the same time as helping people to stay home and slow the spread of Covid-19.”
For more information, visit the Cleveland Clinic website.
