title: Role of teleconsultation in moving the healthcare system forward.
abstract: The equitable access to quality healthcare by Malaysians has consistently been the primary objective of the Ministry of Health (MOH). The epidemiological transition to chronic illnesses, advances in medical technology, escalating healthcare costs and rising patient expectations has necessitated the strategic use of information systems in healthcare delivery. Malaysia has broken new ground by implementing a nationwide network to address inadequate access to healthcare, as well as to lower costs and achieve better health outcomes. Teleconsultation refers to the electronic transmission of medical information and services from one site to another using telecommunication technologies. This technology transforms the healthcare system by rapidly matching patient needs with the appropriate level of care however geographically remote they may be. Our findings suggest that even in these early stages of implementation, teleconsultation has led to cost savings, a more efficient allocation of resources, enhanced diagnostic options and better health outcomes.
authors.affiliation: WorldCare Health (Malaysia), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
authors.forename: Khairuddin
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Yusof
authors.forename: Karen Hong Beng
authors.initials: KH
authors.lastname: Neoh
authors.forename: Muhammad Arif
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: bin Hashim
authors.forename: Ishak
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Ibrahim
mesh_terms: D003695:Delivery of Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D017598:Efficiency, Organizational; D018166:Health Care Reform; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D019456:Health Transition; D006801:Humans; D008296:Malaysia; D011635:Public Health Administration; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care; D019114:Remote Consultation; D012922:Social Change; D017216:Telemedicine / Q000458:organization & administration*