The Government of Delhi implemented ‘Mohalla Clinics’ or community clinics in 2015. Rs. 20 lakh was located for setting up each clinic and the clinics were strategically located so that there was one in every 2-3 km radius. The footfalls at the Mohalla clinics show that they have been successful in catering to the health needs of the urban poor. Other Indian states have also shown interest in replicating this model of healthcare delivery.
Since the Mohalla clinics have been received well; an opportunity presents itself to integrate telemedicine services with them. If these community centers are linked to other district hospitals and super-specialty hospitals, better care can be provided through telemedicine and adequate training. The existing infrastructure and workforce at these clinics can be utilized optimally for adopting telemedicine practices. However, the clinics should be evaluated first, and based on the lessons derived, corrective actions must be taken before expanding the established network of Mohalla clinics.
