The Usefulness of Telemedicine for the Elderly in Rural India: A Study from Jharkhand

India's aging population faces numerous healthcare challenges in resource-deficient rural areas.Superimposed with ruralization of the elderly, income instability, social isolation, and logistical difficulties, equitable healthcare is difficult to access.The government's e-Sanjeevani Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs) telemedicine model can address these challenges.This study aimed at understanding the usefulness of e-Sanjeevani telemedicine services for the rural elderly individuals in Jharkhand.In-depth interviews and non-participant observations were conducted with 21 elderly patients, three community health officers (CHO), two medical officers in-charge (MOIC), and one ASHA worker.Thematic analysis was performed to arrive at results.Three broad themes were identified: Participants' experiences with telemedicine, the advantages of telemedicine, and persisting challenges.The benefits included increased access, continuum of care, and optimized patient flows.Barriers such as connectivity issues, reticence from doctors and logistical hurdles hindered implementation.Notwithstanding the challenges, e-Sanjeevani has the potential to ensure equitable healthcare access for elderly individuals in rural India.