Telemedicine in remote rural areas

http://iritel.org Telemedicine programme assists inexperienced young doctors who work alone in isolated remote rural areas like the small islands in Greece.

On some islands people are thirsty for health services. On most islands basic medical specialities are lacking. On many islands there is only one inexperienced doctor. On some there is not even one doctor. People are forced to travel even for simple health treatment. During the winter sea travelling becomes more difficult and sometimes impossible. Inhabitants of small islands often have hard and dangerous journey to receive medical attention. Usually there are only some small motor boats to transfer patients to other islands. These motor boats are very expensive and if it is blowing force 5 or 6 wind, who wants to get aboard...

In very bad weather helicopter is the proper means, but you never know if it is available when you need it. If it isn't... Helicopter air ambulance has some risks and it is very expensive. As it has been shown that many of these transfers are unnecessary, the authorities are doubtful and often slow to react with the result that some human lives are often put at risk due to delay.

People who live there are merry, good-hearted and proud. They patiently await our help. Telemedicine permits us to be constantly near them, day and night, througout the year, with all medical specialities.

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• telemedicine
• rural areas
• remote areas
• islands
• telehealth
• telematics
• electronic stethoscope
• iritel