Technology in ICU - Telemedicine By E Karan & B Kato.

Introduction Adoption of new strategies is key to success in medical field. Adoption of telemedicine in developed countries helped in improving staffing, provision of care, reduced cost and enhanced better communication. Use of technology in Africa is a new strategy not only in Africa but also in the world. Concept of telemedicine is broad and needs resources, skills and good will in its utilization.

Definition Definition by Institute of Medicine, National Academies, USA is that telemedicine is the use of electronic information and communications technologies to provide and support health care when distance separates the participants. European Commission DG XII defined it as rapid access to shared and remote medical expertise by means of telecommunications and information technologies, no matter where the patient or the relevant information is located .

In 2007 a report of the International Consultation (WHO) defined telemedicine as delivery of healthcare services, where distance is a critical factor, by all healthcare professionals using information and communication technologies for the exchange of valid information for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease and injuries, research and evaluation, and for the continuing of education of healthcare providers, all in the interests of advancing the health of individuals and their communities.

Benefits of telemedicine The benefits can be viewed from three perspectives: Economic development and quality of life. Patients satisfaction and quality of care. Enhance quality health care provision by health care providers. Advancements in delivery of services,Keeping money around the country (Inter county,Outside country), Workforce development/jobs, Quality of life and longevity gains, clinical trials. Access to healthcare, saves time, travel, and other expenses, healthcare at home, health provider intergration, Emergency Room “front line” support, accuracy of diagnosis/reduction of medical errors, A multifold increase in efficiency, CME/Lifelong learning.

Role and Usage in ICU Staff development. Quality of care. Infection control. Patient, relatives satisfaction. Real time multi disciplinary approach.

Challenges Money/ funding. Evidence. confidentiality. Licensure/ Regulations. Hype. Broadband connectivity. Adoption. Technology.

Where are we? Kenya is known for its innovation in technology. Telemedicine is possible in Kenya but a lot need to be done. Health care field is growing and thus embracing new ideas is needed. Most institution in Kenya are going paperless thus showing the need for telemedicine. Internet connectivity is among the best in Africa. Expertise in IT we have but needs prior training in terms of use of IT in medical field.

Where are we : TNH The use of computers, internet and cell phones have been used for interdepartmental and inter-hospital communication. The use of whatsApp feature to send CT-Head images and Electrocardiogram to neurologists, neurosurgeons and cardiologists respectively from the critical care units . Wi-fi availability all over the hospital to provide easy accessibility of internet services. The use of Compact disk for burning radiology reports has been useful for patients seeking further treatment overseas.

We have constructed new conference rooms, which in the near future shall be incorporating teleconferencing.

These efforts have helped us : To provide clinical support, To overcome geographical barriers Improve health outcome.

Conclusion Use of telemedicine is possible in Kenya. We have used it in one way or another but in clinical setting not yet. Staffing can be sorted out in huge way particularly in consultation and specialization. Quality care can be rendered in quantity and quality. Specialized care in ICU can be improved.

Questions? Thank You Danke