New Delhi: India has recognized the importance of first aid early on, but fully implementing it has posed challenges, particularly in rural and remote areas. Despite the fact that 86 percent of medical visits come from rural populations, most must travel more than 100 km to access medical care and public health facilities. A recent survey has revealed high infant mortality rates (IMR) and maternal mortality rates (MMR) in India compared to other BRICS nations (30/1000 live births and 7.3, respectively). The inefficiencies of the existing healthcare system are further highlighted by urban-rural and interstate disparities.
To reduce and overcome existing barriers, the Indian government has recognized mobile medical units (MMU) as a valuable complement to the existing public health system, and are being used extensively to reach the poor and marginalized rural population of India. The Indian government has used the provision of Mobile Medical Units (UMM) in all districts of the country as a key strategy to strengthen health facilities and make health care more accessible to the rural population. As part of the National Health Mission (NHM), more than 1,100 MMUs are currently in operation in more than 300 districts to provide healthcare services in hard-to-reach areas. In addition to MMUs, emergency response vehicles and ambulances are available for referral transportation services in 18 states across the country. Charities and NGOs have also deployed a wide range of MMUs to provide healthcare services.The role of technology in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of mobile medical units (MMUs)
The use of technology can significantly improve the effectiveness of MMUs by providing greater efficiency and effectiveness in the delivery of healthcare services.
One of the main benefits of technology in MMUs is the ability to store and manage patient information more effectively. Electronic Health Records (EHRs) can be used to keep track of patient histories, test results, and other critical information. This can help healthcare professionals make more informed decisions and provide more personalized care to patients. EHRs can also help reduce the time and resources required to transfer medical records between facilities and ensure that patients receive continuity of care regardless of where they are treated.
Another way that technology can improve the effectiveness of MMUs is through telemedicine. Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to connect with patients remotely, using a digital platform, mobile devices, and other digital technologies. This can be particularly useful in areas where access to medical facilities is limited or in emergency situations where quick decisions need to be made. Telemedicine can also help reduce the burden on medical staff and improve efficiency by allowing doctors to provide consultations without being physically present at the MMU.
Mobile apps it can also be used to improve the effectiveness of MMUs. These apps can provide patients with information about common health problems, help them track their symptoms, and offer personalized advice on how to manage their conditions. These apps can also be used to schedule appointments, remind patients of medication doses, and alert healthcare providers in an emergency. This can help ensure that patients receive timely care and prevent minor health problems from becoming major medical problems.
Finally, the technology can be used to improve the logistics of MMUs. Real-time tracking systems can be used to monitor MMU locations to ensure they are deployed in the areas where they are most needed. These systems can also be used to optimize routes and reduce travel time, allowing healthcare professionals to see more patients in a given time. Additionally, using GPS tracking, patients can be notified when the MMU is about to arrive in their area, reducing wait times and making the experience more convenient for patients.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the technology has the potential to significantly improve the effectiveness of MMUs in India. By leveraging digital technologies such as EHR, telemedicine, mobile apps, and real-time tracking systems, healthcare professionals provide and can provide more personalized care to patients, improve the efficiency of healthcare delivery, and ensure that patients receive timely care, regardless of their location. With the continued development of these technologies, we can expect to see even more advancements in the field of mobile healthcare in the coming years.
vikram thaplooCEO, telehealth, Apollo Hospitals Company Limited
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