The Role of Telemedicine and Information Technology in the Redevelopment of Medical Systems: The Case of Kosova

Abstract

The medical system of Kosova was largely destroyed in 1999 by the departing Serbian forces, leaving behind Albanian physicians systematically excluded from advanced medical services for a decade and medical facilities severely damaged in the course of departure in a region with an infrastructure fragmented over the years. The medical system of Kosova can be analyzed for the effectiveness of the many efforts following the disruption of medical care in the 1990s. In this paper, the application of telemedicine and information is recounted. The medical system of Kosova was offered the concept of the International Virtual E-Hospital and this model was used to support, supplement, and guide a massive program development that involved essentially every physician and medical personnel in the region. Currently, the Telemedicine Center of Kosova (TCK) is providing information resources for medical education programs within the Kosova's medical system as well as regional and international consultations and collaboration. Furthermore, it is developing the human resources that will lead and implement telemedicine programs in this region and making serious strides in the redevelopment of medical systems using information technology.

Access to Specialized Care Through Telemedicine in Limited-Resource Country: Initial 1,065 Teleconsultations in Albania

“…3 This model has been successfully utilized to establish telemedicine and e-health education services in other countries both in the Balkans region and in Africa. [4][5][6][7] Currently, the Albanian program is in the last phase or Transfer phase, the final element of the IBOT strategy.…”

“Initiate–Build–Operate–Transfer”—A Strategy for Establishing Sustainable Telemedicine Programs in Developing Countries: Initial Lessons from the Balkans

“…The TPK has been published extensively elsewhere [1][2][3][4] ; however, the conceptual and organizational methodology used has not been described. The concept and advantages of the IBOT strategy has been described previously.…”

Measuring tele-ICU impact: does it optimize quality outcomes for the critically ill patient?

“…Telemedicine is perceived as one solution for meeting current and future health‐care needs and further enhancement is playing a major role in the planning of both public and private agencies responsible for the health of its populations (Latifi et al. 2006, Durrani et al.…”