Virtual hospital 'HelloDoc' launched

Kotha, a local social and lifestyle mobile application, today launched a virtual hospital -- HelloDoc -- where patients can consult doctors through video conferencing and have certain medical tests done at home.

The service was launched jointly with two other digital platforms -- Amarlab and Ergo Ventures Limited.

Using the app, a patient can also seek a medical test, for which a healthcare representative will come to their home and collect samples. The test results will also be delivered to their doorsteps.

The platform is also considering partnering up with Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) to conduct Covid-19 tests and has already taken the initiative to import testing kits from Singapore.

While launching the platform, the entrepreneurs said that initially it will run without charging any consultation fees.

To get the service, users will have to download the Kotha app from Amarlab's Facebook account, from which a link is available to a chat bot. The bot will show the doctors' lists, from where a patient can choose any specialist.

State minister for ICT Zunaid Ahmed Palak launched the service through an online conference, highlighting how important such a venture was at a time when people have to stay at home.

"From the government's point of view, we are trying to promote digital services as much as possible and that's why we are standing beside this type of service," said Palak.

Mahboob Zaman, chairman of Kotha, said they are trying to give some comfort to the citizens who need to visit the doctors but cannot because of the coronavirus situation.

"We hope this will assure the patient that there is a hospital where they can get doctors' support without physically visiting," said Zaman.

Currently 42 doctors, who are specialists in different fields, have joined HelloDoc and the number will increase gradually, he said.

Upon a patient's consent, HelloDoc can record conversations and patient's history.

AmarLab is an at-home-at-work pathology test service bridging the gap between patients and diagnostic centres of their choice, while Ergo Ventures Limited is providing technological support.

The launch event was addressed by AmarLab's Co-founder Tamzid Spondon, Chief Executive Officer Ishtique Zahid and Chairperson of Ergo Ventures Limited Fida E Zaheed.