COVID-19 and the Shift Towards Telemedicine: Developing a Regulatory Foundation in a Post-Pandemic World

Abstract

This article argues that regulations ought to be developed in Qatar for telemedicine. There has been a significant rise in remote consultations between doctors and patients following the COVID—19 pandemic. Around the world, healthcare leaders have sought to stem the spread of the virus while maintaining safe access to doctors. Most countries, including Qatar, have yet to develop bespoke regulations and licensing requirements. This article recommends that a telemedicine practising licence and regulations should be developed.

An analysis of other jurisdictions highlights four key areas where regulations would most benefit practice. They include the standard of care required in remote consultations, information requirements for both doctors and patients, an assessment of the appropriateness of telemedicine for a given consultation, and standards on data processing and security. Regulating these areas will provide greater certainty to all parties while developing a foundation for telemedicine’s continued use.

Keywords: Telemedicine, Law, Qatar, Regulations, Health

JEL Classification: K1, K13, K24, I1