IVEH Telemedicine Initiative Takes Shape in Ethiopia
Addis Ababa and Hawassa, Ethiopia – October 30 to November 2, 2024
During a recent series of engagements of Dr. Rifat Latifi on behalf of the American College of Surgeons and the International Virtual e-Hospital Foundation (IVeH), significant strides were made in advancing telemedicine in the Sidama region.
Dr. Latifi presented a proposed telemedicine project to Dr. Elubabor Buno Teko, Medical Service Lead Executive of the Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa.
Another visit highlight included a meeting at Hawassa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences with Dr. Alemu Tamisso Debiso. Dr. Tamisso Debiso emphasized the potential for the initiative to serve not only the Sidama region but also as a scalable model for the entire country. Meetings with the Department of Surgery revealed a strong eagerness among surgeons and emergency medicine professionals to engage with the program, fostering an environment ripe for impactful healthcare improvements.
A draft letter of commitment was created to solidify support for the telemedicine initiative, outlining essential needs such as dedicated office space, a technology room, and training facilities. The proposal calls for the assignment of healthcare professionals to champion the initiative and acquire leadership skills through training opportunities outside of Ethiopia. Upon successfully completing its foundational phases, the program aims to secure resources for sustained operation, positioning the Telemedicine and Telehealth Regional Program as a cornerstone of healthcare innovation in Sidama and a model for other regions.
Additionally, Dr. Latifi participated in educational activities at the university, delivering a well-attended lecture on complex abdominal wall reconstruction, which sparked engaging discussions among faculty and students.
With these positive developments, the telemedicine initiative is well on its way to enhancing healthcare access and education in Ethiopia, marking a promising step forward in the country’s healthcare landscape.