Abstract

The integration of video consultations (VCs) in emergency care has emerged as a transformative approach, particularly post-COVID-19, to address challenges in healthcare access, specialist shortages, and emergency department congestion. This review explores the global and Indian experiences with emergency video consultations, assessing their impact on healthcare access in rural and underserved areas, workflow optimization in urban emergency departments, and specialist availability for time-sensitive conditions. Key findings indicate that VCs reduce referral rates, enhance patient satisfaction, and improve resource allocation. However, challenges such as technical limitations, digital inequality, and cultural barriers persist. Advances in artificial intelligence (AI), wearable technology, and government initiatives like India’s eSanjeevani platform provide promising pathways to expand and optimize VC integration in emergency care. Future efforts should focus on addressing connectivity issues, integrating culturally appropriate protocols, and leveraging AI for improved triage accuracy. By fostering an ecosystem of research, technological advancement, and supportive policies, video consultations could reshape emergency care, enhancing equitable healthcare access across India’s diverse regions.

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