DOC2US, University of Malaya & Taylor’s University Achieve Milestone Publication in Sage Journals

DOC2US has partnered with the University of Malaya and Taylor's University for a pioneering telehealth study, resulting in the publication of our first research paper, "Exploring the Rise of Telehealth Services in Malaysia: A Retrospective Study," available in Sage Journals. This collaborative effort signifies a significant milestone in comprehending the evolution of telehealth in both community pharmacies and corporate segments in Malaysia. 

This study used data from January 2019 to December 2021, from DOC2US, a major Malaysian telehealth provider offering both assisted and direct consultations. Assisted consultations involve pharmacists aiding users in consulting virtual physicians, facilitating e-prescription issuance. Direct consultations involve remote interactions for minor ailments or stable conditions. Both are classified as telehealth, enabling electronic transmission of medical information and remote healthcare services.

One of the study results indicates that assisted consultation services with e-prescriptions are primarily used for chronic cardiovascular diseases, constituting 41.7% of diagnoses, followed by diabetes and dyslipidaemia. 

Direct consultations follow a similar trend, with cardiovascular diseases representing 43.0% of diagnoses. The most common medications prescribed align with these top diagnoses in both services.

Assisted consultations are more widely used than direct consultations for the follow-up of chronic conditions, highlighting the crucial role of telehealth in managing chronic diseases within Malaysia's healthcare system. 

The study also shows a consistent increase in unique users for both telehealth services. The rise in users did not strongly align with Movement Control Orders but moderately correlated with the number of active COVID-19 cases. Even after a decline in COVID-19 cases and the lifting of movement restrictions, monthly user numbers remained high.

To maximise the potential of telehealth in Malaysia, a collaborative approach among healthcare professionals, including physicians and community pharmacists, is recommended for promoting and assisting patients in transitioning to digital health services. This collaborative effort can enhance the management and outcomes of chronic conditions for patients in Malaysia.
Access the full publication here.