). Lessons Learned from the Pandemic in Indonesia: Enhancing Doctor-Patient Medical Communication to Improve Diagnostic Certainty in Telemedicine

Abstract

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia has transformed various aspects of life, particularly in healthcare, where communication between doctors and patients has shifted toward increased utilization of telemedicine. This research aims to achieve several objectives. Firstly, it investigates the deployment process of telemedicine as a remote medical service solution during pandemic circumstances, involving physical distancing and constraints. Secondly, it explores how telemedicine is adapted within clinic settings, considering the unique challenges and necessary adjustments for effective integration.   Method: This research utilizes a case study approach, specifically a multiple case study.   Result: Telemedicine heavily relies on patients' knowledge, information, and their role in substituting a physician's sensory input in making comprehensive medical decisions. Effective communication skills emerge as a critical solution, often overlooked as a soft skill for medical practitioners. Telemedicine encounters difficulties in discerning nonverbal cues compared to in-person consultations. To address this challenge, information gathering should encompass various media, such as photos and videos, in addition to text or verbal exchanges. Furthermore, telemedicine faces barriers related to connectivity and network issues.   Conclusion: Recognizing the equal standing of doctors and patients is imperative, with physicians fostering openness and trust as the foundation for mediated communication. Although specific criteria for information collection exist, doctors should proactively explore relevant patient aspects. To mitigate network issues, healthcare facilities should establish robust network infrastructure, provide healthcare professionals with suitable devices, and consider dedicated telemedicine applications for comprehensive technology mastery.