Description
Introduction: The adoption of advanced technology has significantly improved health systems at the global, regional, and national levels. Kenya is digitising its health system to achieve Universal Health Coverage. This has not only transformed healthcare at health facilities but also enhanced telemedicine.
Methods: We adopted a cross-sectional study design that allowed data collection from various individuals at a single point in time. Data were collected from published reports and key informants from the Ministry of Health. Using a structured interview guide, we inquired about the implementation of telemedicine.
Results: Digitisation motivated one county in central Kenya (Murang'a) to adopt telemedicine. County managers built a telemedicine hub, provided internet connectivity, solar power, and deployed health workers. Additionally, they established a digital telemedicine platform that was interoperable with the local Electronic Medical Records system. This was followed by training medical workers and informing the public about telemedicine and other technologies. A total of 1500 clients, mostly with chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension, joined the programme. Clients consulted health workers stationed at the telemedicine hub for diagnosis and treatment. For clients needing laboratory investigations, dedicated motorbikes transported specimens to laboratories. The results were transmitted to caregivers through the system. Similarly, for critically ill patients, a dedicated ambulance was available to transport them from home to the hospital. For those in need of dialysis, a mobile dialysis machine was available and paid for through the Social Health Insurance.
Discussion: The telemedicine initiative was successful due to the positive outcomes, such as reduced travel costs and enhanced supporting infrastructure. For instance, interoperability allowed health workers to access results within the system, view earlier consultations; increasing efficiency. We argue that if well-adapted, cutting-edge technologies and innovations like e-consultations represent a significant step towards decentralising medical services in low-resourced settings with strained human resources.
| Country | Kenya |
|---|---|
| Organization | Government of Kenya |
| Position | Senior Deputy Director of medical services |
| Received a Grant? | No |
