Indian Army Launches E-SeHAT Tele-Consultancy for Veterans

The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) has introduced the Electronic Services e-Health Assistance and Tele-consultation (E-SeHAT) module as of July 30, 2024. This initiative allows ECHS beneficiaries to receive online medical consultations from their homes, eliminating the need to visit ECHS Polyclinics. The E-SeHAT module offers structured, video-based consultations, aiming to enhance healthcare delivery for veterans by providing timely and quality medical care remotely.

Pilot Launch and Expansion

The pilot phase of E-SeHAT has been initiated at 12 ECHS Polyclinics, including those in remote locations such as Baramulla, Imphal, Churachandpur, Dimapur, and Aizawal. The project has successfully conducted tele-consultations with remote beneficiaries in these areas. The full nationwide rollout of E-SeHAT is scheduled for November 2024.

Compliance and Infrastructure

The E-SeHAT module complies with telemedicine practice guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in consultation with NITI AAYOG in March 2020. To support this initiative, IT hardware and equipment have been distributed to all 427 ECHS Polyclinics, and staff members have received training to conduct online consultations. Future phases will incorporate pre-consultation vital checks, home delivery of medicines, and referrals to empaneled hospitals by medical officers.

Alignment with Digital India Vision

E-SeHAT aligns with the Government of India’s Digital India vision, which aims to enhance digital inclusivity and efficiency in public services. This new module represents a significant advancement in transforming healthcare for veterans, ensuring that they can access quality medical care conveniently from their homes.