The eight-nation Arctic Council approved a sustainable development project to investigate the international application of telemedicine in the Far North. Funding was secured from both the State of Alaska and the U.S. Department of State to prepare a report on the current status and potential collaborative efforts of Arctic telemedicine. In addition to dealing with the eight key national contacts who were identified, the project also solicited participation from four indigenous peoples' groups to obtain a greater insight into the cultural and physical aspects that influence the use of telemedicine in the Arctic. While there were difficulties in dealing with electronic communication standards, health system structures, and cultural, as well as lingusitic variation, there was agreement on process. From early stages, the issues of improved telecommunications in the Far North and the need for "user friendly" equipment interface were identified as areas of common concern. Incorporating cultural aspects into new technology systems is a key to sustainable success.
Learning Objectives: 1. Participants will develop an understanding of an eight nation process that works actively with four indigenous peoples' groups to improve health in the far north. 2. Participants will recognize the structures that compliment and impede health programs within an internationally approved endeavor of the sustainable delivery of services. 3. Participants will recognize the cultural and physical features of the Arctic that make telemedicine programs a challenge as well as a potential source of positive health service delivery
Keywords: International Health, Telemedicine
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.