To maintain healthcare capacity and quality as the COVID-19 cases soared, effective on May 26, 2022, those who tested positive using a home test kit may report their cases to the government upon obtaining a medical assessment. However, many were confused as to how to download and use telemedicine apps or which specialization to go to.

To make its telemedicine services more accessible, FEMH introduced the Far Eastern Telemedicine Service. With a few simple steps, patients could rest assured that a doctor would reach out to them at their own homes through a phone call. 

The hospital arranged for doctors with appropriate specializations to call and diagnose the patients. If needed, the hospital also provided care and assistance through its call center to patients who were ready to end the quarantine period, which alleviated their stress.

Between May and July 2022, FEMH made a weekly average of 810 calls to diagnose COVID-19 patients; 4,116 calls to prescribe antiviral medication; 1,679 calls to prescribe medicine to treat the symptoms. The service was available nationwide and on the weekends. 

The Far Eastern Telemedicine Service offers one-stop service for patients who contracted COVID-19. The service augmented medical capacity while minimizing barriers for patients who wished to report their cases and obtain antiviral medication. The service was crucial, especially among the elderly population and high-risk groups.