THE LEGAL AND ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS OF TELEMEDICINE

AUTHOR – KAUSTUVA VIKASH NATH, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AT NEF LAW COLLEGE GUWAHATI

BEST CITATION – KAUSTUVA VIKASH NATH, THE LEGAL AND ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS OF TELEMEDICINE, ILE MULTIDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL, 3 (1) OF 2024, PG. 257-261, APIS – 3920-0007 | ISSN – 2583-7230.

ABSTRACT

Telemedicine, the practice of delivering healthcare remotely via telecommunications technologies, has seen significant growth, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. By enabling virtual consultations, it offers increased convenience for patients and expanded access to care, particularly in rural or underserved areas. However, the rise of telemedicine also presents a number of legal and ethical challenges that need to be addressed to ensure safe and equitable care. Key concerns include the protection of patient privacy, as sensitive health information is transmitted digitally, and the issue of informed consent, as patients may not fully understand the scope and limitations of remote care. Additionally, healthcare providers may face legal liability risks in cases of malpractice or negligence, and the question of licensing becomes more complicated, as providers may treat patients across state or national borders. This study examines the legal frameworks governing telemedicine, explores ethical dilemmas in the patient-provider relationship, and identifies potential solutions to these challenges. By addressing these issues, the study aims to ensure that telemedicine can be implemented effectively, ethically, and securely as a sustainable component of modern healthcare delivery.

KEYWORDS – Telemedicine, Telecommunication, Pandemic, Patient Privacy, Informed Consent, Liability in Telemedicine.