The University Medical Center Mannheim and the Gastrohepatology Research Group of the Medical Faculty at the University of Antioquia (UdeA) in Colombia are working together to improve the care of patients with liver and bile duct diseases, especially in remote areas of the country.
Context:
The Colombian health system offers comprehensive health services, especially in urban centres, but rural areas are mostly underserved.
The majority of hepatologists are also based in urban regions. Above all people with diseases of the liver and bile duct living in the Amazon and Orinoquia regions do not have access to adequate care, although these regions have one of the highest hepatitis B infection rates in the country.
Activities:
-\tDeveloping an online training programme on how to perform ultrasound liver examinations
-\tPurchase of portable ultrasound scanners
-\tHolding monthly online meetings to check the programme’s progress
-\tVirtual case review for complicated cases
Result:
Medical care for hepatological patients, especially in the remote regions of Amazon and Orinoquia, is improved through the use of mobile ultrasound and tele-consultations with doctors.