The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the world in more ways than we could ever imagine. Virtually everything from the way we socialise to the way business is conducted has been transformed by the virus – including the evergreen healthcare sector. Particularly hit hard by the pandemic, non-critical medical service providers faced significant challenges due to reduced or delayed visitations by patients. As a result, an alternative way of engaging patients has emerged – namely telemedicine.
Telemedicine, defined as remote diagnosis and treatment of patients via electronic information and telecommunication technologies, is nothing novel having been governed by the Malaysian Telemedicine Act since 1997. Nevertheless it has rapidly gained popularity in the past 2 years thanks to its agility in remotely providing medical consultation, advice, or even prescriptions amidst the COVID-19 movement control. One such medical practitioner joining forces in supporting their patients via telemedicine is family doctor Dr Liew Kong Fui from Liew Clinic in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
Armed with medical qualifications in Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine, Dr Liew discovered telemedicine as a remarkable engagement tool for his patients, particularly the elderly and socially isolated during the pandemic. Driven by the increasing difficulty of travelling, Dr Liew set up telemedicine services to ensure continuous medical access to his patients, particularly those with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such diabetes, hypertension, and high blood cholesterol who require regular follow-up. Other chronic disorders such as mental health disorders as well as skin-related concerns are also covered under their telemedicine practices.
While not meant to replace physical assessment, patients would find comfort in knowing that a typical telemedicine consultation session is carried out by trained medical practitioners in the flow as a normal physical consultation. In necessary cases, physical assessment will also be recommended either via clinic visit or house call. Critically, openness in sharing accurate medical conditions and history is paramount to ensuring the best healthcare outcome for patients.
Liew Clinic (Petaling Jaya, Selangor) currently provides telemedicine services to all of Malaysia including East Malaysia. As a dermatology specialist, they also offer cosmeceutical products from smith-meyerlab. Anyone interested may directly call their number 03-77223188, message their WhatsApp line 016-9042097, or email hello@liewclinic.com for an appointment.