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Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology logoLink to Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology
letter
. 2022 Jan 5;25(3):533. doi: 10.4103/aian.aian_963_21

Adverse Effects of Telemedicine

Pathums Sookaromdee 1,, Viroj Wiwanitkit 1
PMCID: PMC9350749  PMID: 35936590

Dear Editor,

We would like to share ideas on “Teleneurorehabilitation Among Person with Parkinson’s Disease in India: The Initial Experience and Barriers to Implementation” by Garg et al.[1] In the paper, they conclude that “Multiple challenges were faced in implementing a telerehabilitation program among persons with PD, exacerbated … adherence issues and maintenance. Future TNR programs must address these concerns.” In general, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in several problems in patient care. Difficulty in accessing health care services at medical centers has become a common problem during the pandemic. An adjustment to the situation is required. Telemedicine is a current useful method for providing care during the pandemic.[2]

Garg et al.[1] give many useful points in implementation of a telemedicine communication system. We would like to add a little mentioned aspect: the negative effect of telemedicine. As an electronic tool, telemedicine might cause problems to the neurological patient. A recent report observes that seizures might be associated with telemedicine use.[3] Sounds or bright lights from electronic phones might be the cause.[4] For patients with Parkinson’s disease, seizures are also a possible problem.[5] It is necessary to have a good instruction for patient and cousin on safe and appropriate environmental adjustment when using telemedicine communication.

Financial support and sponsorship

Nil.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

REFERENCES

  • 1.Garg D, Majumdar R, Chauhan S, Preenja R, Parihar J, Saluja A, et al. Teleneurorehabilitation among person with Parkinson’s disease in India: The initial experience and barriers to implementation. Ann Indian Acad Neurol. 2021;24:536–41. doi: 10.4103/aian.AIAN_127_21. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
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