Hybrid networking solutions for e-Health systems in Georgia

Hybrid telecom networks represent cost-efficient solutions particularly for e-Health systems in developing countries. Two networking projects in Georgia are presented: 1) REHN Project (2012) - Regional e-Health Network (REHN) model for Unimedi Adjara six-hospital system based on Fiber-Wireless (FiWi) networks. e-Health services and modules selection resulted in minimum/optimal bandwidth calculation for hospitals and primary care. The cost-efficient mix of cable/wireless technologies revealed that optical fiber cables (OFC) and long-range WiFi with dual-polarized directional antennas (DPDA) to represent the best ICT infrastructure combination for large hospitals. For small remote hospitals without nearby OFC backbone, combined dual wireless connectivity - IEEE 802.11 WiFi-DPDA and CDMA-EVDO, or alternatively - UMTS/HSPA+ 3G/3.5G technology - was chosen. 2) HiNet Project (2013-2015) - elaborates cost-efficient alternatives of FiWi network architecture for 3 pilot mountain regions with aim of supporting mountain telemedicine, e-learning, Health Management Information System, Primary Healthcare network and patient referral in case of emergencies.