"Telemedicine currently forms an integral part of health care service delivery to South African communities, most especially in under-served areas and information and communication technology (ICT) initiatives which could further assist in health care delivery are welcomed," said acting registrar Marella O'Reilly.
"However, the HPCSA is mandated to protect the public and consequently new initiatives in telemedicine which could compromise patient rights and safety need to be thoroughly interrogated before implementation to ensure the public's interests and rights are protected."
The council is awaiting business models from two such initiatives, Hello Doctor as well as Sanlam/MTN which will be considered by its Undesirable Business Practice Committee.
In the interim the regulator is cautioning the public not to make use of these telemedicine initiatives offering a "doctor - just a call away" service as some of these practices may be in breach of patients rights such as practitioner-patient relationships, patient confidentiality and informed consent.
Healthcare practitioners involved in these initiatives are also cautioned not to breach the HPCSA ethical rules which may include sharing of fees, confidentiality, employment of practitioners, and consulting of patients without a physical examination.
Guidelines for telemedicine are currently being considered by the council and it is important to note that these guidelines have been drafted in a manner that is in line with existing ethical rules and regulations.
