A low-cost solution for converting existing stethoscope into tele-stethoscope in resource-constrained setting for COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

In the present scenario of COVID-19, there has been a sudden surge in demand for tele- consultancy. Such measures require resources to support the system. Replacement of conventional equipment used in a clinic with digital equipment is not feasible due to their cost and scalability issues. The authors developed a simple low-cost (almost zero cost) method to convert a conventional stethoscope into a tele-stethoscope. Such a simple modification can be useful in periphery wherein doctors are still not available and the growing number of patients would require a diagnosis of the chest conditions.

Keywords

• covid-19
• stethoscope
• teleconsultation