THE APPLICATION OF TELEMEDICINE IN BULGARIA IN THE CONDITIONS OF COVID-19

Following the imposed quarantine measures and the global blockade of most regions and countries due to COVID-19, telemedicine has become an innovative alternative to healthcare, treatment and training without which many patients will not be able to cope with the emerging diseases. The aim of the present work is to study and analyze the possibilities of telemedicine in Bulgaria in the conditions of a pandemic and the public attitudes for its application. The survey included 253 respondents who participated voluntarily and anonymously. The attitude of the respondents towards the use of an online platform for a consultation or a mobile application regarding COVID-19 was positive. The most given answer was that they would install mobile applications if they were related to information about a contact with a patient with COVID-19, followed by those who would install an application for treatment of mild symptoms. Most of the respondents pointed out that the issuance of an electronic referral, electronic sick leave form and prescription could limit the spread of COVID-19. The study showed that tele-medicine in Bulgaria in terms of COVID-19 needs not only greater publicity, but also wider application. There is a positive attitude of people towards tele-medicine during the pandemic.