The Importance of Information and Communication Technologies in Establishing Healthcare Services with a Universal Coverage

Abstract

One of the most important challenges faced by the healthcare system is the organization of healthcare services to cope with the increase in population and aging of citizens. Especially in developing countries, demographic movements of the population, regional disparities, political concerns, and increasing expectations of health services have led to a search for new ways to serve all of the population with healthcare services. With traditional methods, it is not possible to increase the supply of health services because of inadequate infrastructure and shortcomings in quantity and quality of healthcare staff. This new health system called e-health and uses all of the possibilities provided by information and communication technologies that aim to improve public health. In this chapter, the effects of e-health practices on the quality and accessibility of healthcare services are assessed and the extent of e-health practices in Turkey are evaluated.

How does it work? Factors involved in telemedicine home-interventions effectiveness: A review of reviews

“…Such a situation makes it necessary to travel, and becomes a barrier when frequent and continuous care is needed [ 52 ]: ICT can bridge the separation between patient and doctor [ 53 ]. Then there is the socioeconomic divide to consider: IBI can contribute to face disparities and inequalities in access to healthcare services [ 54 – 56 ]. However, more studies are needed to compare different settings (e.g., rural vs. urban), and within urban scenarios patients should be differentiated by their ability to access the healthcare system [ 15 ].…”

A “matter of communication”: A new classification to compare and evaluate telehealth and telemedicine interventions and understand their effectiveness as a communication process

“…According to another definition, telemedicine is one eHealth -specific application. 11 (p. 80) Probably, eHealth is a hyperonym encompassing both telemedicine and telecare . 57 But, if eHealth “refers to all forms of electronic health care delivered over the internet,” 2 (p. 31) and telemedicine is something related to a professional, 29 eHealth could be driven by non-professionals, 2 including patients themselves 58,59 and also businesses and consumers.…”

“…8 A commitment to increased utilization of technology in healthcare was announced in the United States 9 and in European Union. 10 Moreover, “technology has become a basic factor determining the quality of the health services.” 11 (p. 79)…”

“…However, a “socioeconomic distance,” for example, a “divide” caused by personal demographics, should be included as well: in this case, ICTs contribute to face disparities and inequalities in accessing healthcare services. 5,11,29,31 The point is “a separation of patient and doctor” 6 (p. 575) that is bridged through technology. 6 Because of such a distance, the healthcare action cannot be afforded without the help of ICTs.…”