Partnership enables launch of telemedicine work stations
On Thursday 12 March 2009, the Botshabelo community in the Free State
become one of the first beneficiaries of four Primary Healthcare
Telemedicine Workstations that will be implemented at rural hospitals in
conjunction with the Free State Department of Health.
The telemedicine workstation was developed by the Stellenbosch
University and the Medical Research Council and funded by the Innovation
Fund, an initiative of the Department of Science and Technology.
The partnership between the MTN SA Foundation and the Medical Research
Council has realized the provision of real time healthcare services
through the innovative use of the Telemedicine Workstation to the rural
and outlying communities of South Africa.
On the occasion of the launch, the keynote speaker, Deputy Minister of
Science and Technology, Mr. Derek Hanekom emphasised the role of science
and technology in assisting service departments to be able to work
faster and smarter. He highlighted the need to look at alternative ways
to provide specialist care and other medical interventions closer to the
home of the patients by "bringing the doctor closer to the patient".
The President of the Medical Research Council, Prof. Tony Mbewu said:
"Telemedicine technology allows patients to receive comprehensive care
at a local clinic or hospital instead of being referred to a tertiary
hospital with the appropriate services. This reduces the cost of
unnecessary patient transfers and saves the patient valuable time and
expenses when away from work or their family."
The MTN SA Foundation is focused on promoting sustainable and healthy
lifestyles in communities and feels passionate about supporting an
initiative that is designed to enhance the quality of life of South
Africans.
The Chief Corporate Services Officer of MTN SA, Mr. Zolisa Masiza said:
"This partnership shows how effectively the government and the private
sector can work together to solve the technical constraints that have
negatively impacted on the service delivery of the healthcare sector".
The MTN SA Foundation plays a key role in the project by committing the
funds and bandwidth required to assist with the telemedicine project.
This collaboration is an example of government, research institutions
and the private sector working together for the mutual benefit of all
South Africans.
Editorial contact
