ITeHP-CV experts begin the preparation of the telemedicine technical protocols

The experts of the Integrated Telemedicine and e-Health Program of the Republic of Cape Verde (ITeHP-CV) begin the preparation of the clinical telemedicine technical protocols. Dr. Melinda Silva and Dr. Catarina Monteiro, the only two dermatologists of the Cabo Verdean public healthcare system, with the assistance of the ITeHP-CV project staff drafted the first technical protocol for Image Acquisition for Teledermatology. The draft was presented to representatives from all the telemedicine centers that are part of the ITeHP-CV network. The draft will be thorough discussion and pilot tested, before being finalized and presented to the management of ITeHP-CV for approval and enforcement. The work for elaborating clinical telemedicine protocols will continue with other telemedicine specialties. 

The need for technical protocols follows an outstanding start of the clinical components of the ITeHP-CV that saw 10 programs being launched over a period of six months. Teledermatology remains the flagship clinical program that conducts almost 40% of the total number of teleconsultations in both real-time and store-and-forward mode. The International Virtual e-Hospital Foundation President and Project Director, Prof. Rifat Latifi, guarantied the local counterparts on the level of commitment of IVeH in supporting the expansion of clinical and educational programs in Cape Verde. In a recent paper published in the Bulletin of the American College of Surgeons, Prof. Latifi ranks the uptake of clinical programs from doctors and nurses a key success factor for any telemedicine and e-health program in developing countries. “I am happy to see this happening in Cape Verde” – Prof. Latifi said in a recent interview.

The ITeHP-CV is financed by the Republic of Slovenia by International Virtual e-Hospital Foundation.through ITF Enhancing Human Security.