The healthcare sector in Jammu and Kashmir has received a significant boost with the introduction of the “e-Sehat” app, which promises to transform how medical services are accessed and delivered across the Union Territory. Launched recently and dedicated to the public by the Chief Minister, this app has been envisioned as a one-stop digital solution to address a wide range of health-related concerns for patients, healthcare professionals, and the general public. The e-Sehat app offers an array of services aimed at various sections of society, including patients, medical students, healthcare workers, and the general public. Key features include access to information about healthcare services, health insurance, medical education, and skill development. A unique feature of the app is the inclusion of a chatbot that allows users to ask queries and receive instant responses, making healthcare guidance more accessible and user-friendly. The app is also expected to play a pivotal role in the professional development of doctors by offering access to research and training resources. Furthermore, integration with premier institutions like PGI Chandigarh and AIIMS, along with other NDHM panel hospitals and reputed private hospitals outside the UT, allows for online registration and easier access to expert medical consultation. The platform extends its utility to thousands of healthcare centers, including AYUSH centers, diagnostic labs, MRI and CT scan facilities, dental care clinics, physiotherapy units, de-addiction centers, blood banks, vaccination centers, and pharmacies. Importantly, the app provides GPS-based information about the nearest available health services, enabling users to locate and avail services quickly in case of emergencies. By bringing so many crucial services under one digital umbrella, the e-Sehat app is poised to address numerous health-related challenges faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. If even 50% of its features are actively utilized, it has the potential to revolutionize the healthcare experience in the region. However, to ensure its success, there is a pressing need to raise awareness among the public about the app and its multiple benefits. The e-Sehat app is a commendable initiative that signifies a paradigm shift towards digital healthcare. It is not only a tool for convenience but a necessary step toward building a responsive and inclusive health system for all residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
