Abstract
Introduction: The concept of telemedicine and telehealth to provide healthcare services over distance has been known for some time. However, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly amplified the interest, implementation, and use of telemedicine around the world in large part due to the need to decrease in-person exposure to this contagious virus and its high incidence of morbidity and mortality. As the pandemic ended, telemedicine has remained part of a healthcare delivery system that is complementary to in-person services and care. The experience with the potential benefits of telemedicine has become global with many countries exploring collaborative efforts to integrate telemedicine effectively into each country’s healthcare system both internally and through international collaborations.
Methods and Approach: In order to successfully develop international collaborative telemedicine initiatives there are basic steps that should be undertaken including 1) Developing trusted relationships among individuals representing different countries or organizations that best understand the healthcare needs, 2) Understanding cultural perspective related to health, 3) Survey of the environment and structure in which health care is provided, along with the resources financial support, and workforce available, as well as available infrastructure, 4) Awareness of public health issues and social determinants impacting population health, 5) identifying related existing gaps, 6) Fostering the political will to implement and sustain telemedicine and related collaborative efforts, and 7) Assessing the additional funding and resources needed to implement the initiatives effectively. Furthermore, these initiatives should provide systems for ongoing evaluation to demonstrate the benefits of telemedicine, and identify areas for improvement, as well as address the barriers and challenges.
Results, Present, and Future Opportunities: There are many examples of international collaborative telemedicine initiatives and programs, including successes and failures, which provide lessons learned that can be shared and applied by others seeking to develop international telemedicine initiatives. There are significant future opportunities for developing international collaborations in telemedicine and integration of telehealth within other international healthcare collaborative programs, applying new advances in the technology and related applications. If done effectively, these collaborative telehealth efforts can enhance global health, improve international relationships and mutual understanding, which lead to a more productive and peaceful worldwide community working together to create a better quality of life for the patients we serve.