Challenges Faced by Organizations in Implementing Telemedicine in Developing Countries: A Literature Review

Abstract

Telemedicine is the use of information and communication technology (ICT) to provide and support health care. It is not only limited to communication between physicians, but it can also be used in consultation, diagnosis, monitoring and even surgery. It provides a way for the masses that live in remote areas to access medical services without having to travel all the way to urban areas to seek medical attention. Most developed countries have ventured fully into telemedicine and the outcomes of the implementation of telemedicine can be felt. In developing countries, implementation has taken place as well, albeit with challenges. For instance, countries like Bangladesh are working hard towards the use of telemedicine to improve the provision of healthcare to its people. This study is as a result of the evaluation of literature to establish the challenges faced in the implementation process by developing countries. The study has pointed out challenges in telemedicine implementation that will assist developing countries to find the best ways implementing of implementing telemedicine systems.