DIGITAL HEALTH TECHNOLOGIES AND TELEMEDICINE FOR STRENGTHENING PRIMARY HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS
Abstract
The delivery of healthcare services is facilitated through the Primary Healthcare Systems (PHS) with regard to employment. However, the efficacy of PHS continues to be impeded by such challenges as: geographically-based inequitable access to healthcare services; inadequate workforce numbers/availability; emerging chronic disease burdens and, particularly within low- and middle-income countries, geographic inequities. Consequently, the rapid development of digital health technologies and telemedicine have emerged as an innovative method to address these barriers. The use of digital health tools including, electronic health records (EHRs), mobile health applications (mHealth Apps), wearable devices and teleconsultation platforms will provide timely access to care; enhance service continuity; and patient engagement. Telemedicine will enable remote diagnosis, monitoring and follow up; thus, decreasing costs associated with healthcare and improving health outcomes. This literature review represents a comprehensive analysis of the potential for digital health technologies and telemedicine to improve the functionality of Primary Healthcare Systems. In this context, it addresses the main uses, benefits, limitations and future outlook of the subject matter, as well as the potential that digital health technologies and telemedicine may provide for improved access, quality and sustainability of Primary Healthcare Service Delivery.
Keywords:Digital health, Telemedicine, Primary healthcare systems, Mobile health, Healthcare accessibility.
Author(s):Dr. Richard Owusu Nyarko
Email:richardnyarko91@yahoo.com
DOI:-
Orcid-id:https://orcid.org/0009-0009-1778-7202
