Telemedicine in otorhinolaryngological practice during COVID‑19 pandemic

Abstract

Coronavirus‑19 pandemic has impacted significantly on global social, economic, financial, and health institutions. Otolaryngologic (ORL) practice has also been affected by the scourge with the need for modification of practice. The risks of contracting COVID‑19 with the regular
“patient–doctor physical contact” method of management of cases in ORL practice are high, given the routine examination of nose and throat. The desirability of telemedicine in the handling of most patients is appealing despite the limitations in the technology, especially in the developing countries like Africa. Therefore, otorhinolaryngologists in Sub‑Saharan Africa, within limits of applicability, should leverage on telemedicine in their clinical practice during this COVID‑19 pandemic and beyond. COVID‑19, being a disease of second chance, has provided us with the opportunity to harness this technologically driven method of supportive care in our clime.