Important healthcare changes and the new norm following Covid-19

It is well-known that the current Covid-19 pandemic is having massive and wide-ranging impacts on the economy, leading to a severe worldwide recession. Only the most versatile businesses are expected to survive or show signs of growth. Additionally, once the pandemic does come to an end, it is expected that a new normal, or “new norm,” will emerge. This means there will be many changes in our everyday lifestyles and behaviors, and our use of technology, particularly our shifting online patterns.

Over recent months, many companies have complied with social distancing measures by allowing their employees to utilize technology in order to work from home, while learning institutions have begun teaching online. Additionally, businesses in increasing numbers are turning to online sales. With many people becoming unemployed, a greater number of independent enterprises are likely to spring up as more people try to respond to the rapidly changing job landscape.

Recent events have led to people becoming more aware about individual and public health. Maintaining good health and a diet containing foods that boost immunity can help protect us from contracting viruses. Furthermore, shops and commercial locations now offer alcohol-based gels and sanitized equipment for customer use and encourage physical distancing at all times, including when lining up to make payment. This new era in shopping may result in automated payment machines alongside voice-activated ordering devices becoming standard practice in the near future.

It is now possible to work or run a business remotely with the use of communication tools, including computers, mobile phones and the internet. Our lives are becoming increasingly convenient and less monotonous. However, if we are not careful and become addicted to these devices, we could forget about those close to us which could result in stress, depression, office syndrome and age-related macular degeneration. Nevertheless, as many companies now expect employees to work from home, it is essential that the home has a suitable and sanitized workspace, including a desk and comfortable chair.

With strict social distancing measures in place, many people are seeking information related to their health in order to accurately diagnose any symptoms they may be experiencing. Large numbers have begun using telehealth services, which use communication technologies to provide the following healthcare services: Teleconsultations, symptom monitoring and interpretation of test results, in cooperation with medical professionals through Virtual Hospitals. Home-based blood tests, health examinations, vaccinations, physiotherapy, wound dressing and medicine delivery services. Care for patients with chronic health conditions—such as stroke victims—through the use of specially designed monitoring equipment aimed at reducing complications, enabling a full recovery, and providing their caregivers peace of mind. Telemedicine still has a number of limitations, with one of the most crucial being that doctors are unable to assess the patient physically in order to provide the most accurate diagnosis or medical advice. Doctors often need to listen to the lungs and heart, view the throat, or carry out other tests to help them make a diagnosis. Fortunately, handheld examination kits are now available in Thailand, and widely regarded as being capable of filling this void. TytoCare is an example of such a device. This device includes a digital stethoscope for listening to internal organs, and it can analyze the ears, nose and throat, screen skin conditions and check body temperature. It can provide doctors with all of the patient’s important medical information without the need for physical contact. Moreover, this device has been accredited for use by both the US and Thai FDA.