Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in the use of electronic platforms to provide access to health services. There are various types of platform, but most enable patients to consult with a medical practitioner or solicit responses to health-related questions. Often, these responses are generated through automated mechanisms and algorithms. These platforms seemingly push the legal boundaries of telemedicine.
Legal framework
When providing telemedicine services, health practitioners must comply with the General Ethical Guidelines for Good Practice in Telemedicine, which the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) issued under the Health Professions Act (56/1974) in August 2014.