Innovating in times of crisis: Giving virtual consultations (Part 2 of 3)
By Edgar Bagasol Jr. and John Oliver Corciega Access to a healthcare professional is another need expressed by LoveYourself’s PLHIV clients. This has become challenging with COVID, primarily because they are concerned about their susceptibility to COVID-19 if they go out, due to their immunocompromised status. While there is still no evidence to prove that they have an indeed greater risk of acquiring COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) still advises PLHIVs, especially “those with advanced diseases, those with low CD4 and high viral load, and those who are not taking ARV” to take extra precaution. LoveYourself staff coordinating schedules for iCON Photo by Edgar Bagasol Jr. To respond to this expressed gap, LoveYourself launched its telehealth program called iCON, short for “interactive consultation” ( go.loveyourself.ph/iCON ), where PLHIV clients on treatment can consult with a healthcare professional via social media or other digital platforms. Besides giving clients the o...