Telecardiology for e-Diagnosis and e-Learning in Rural Area of Sabah, Malaysia: A Novel Approach for Cardiac Services in Rural Medicine

Telecardiology is a newer alternative modality for providing effective cardiac care from a variable distances by utilizing information and information and communication technology. The cardiovascular diseases in rural population of Malaysia including Sabah are a leading cause of death. The scarcity of specialists, leads to delayed treatment, irregular follow up and ineffective monitoring. We aim to improve the cardiac care by telecardiology services. These services will be based on hybrid approach consisting of frequent tele consultations along with infrequent real regular follow up visits by physicians to evaluate clinical as well as diagnostic parameters. It will not only help us for early diagnosis, constant monitoring and quick remedial support, but will also prove to be cost effective alternative. These objectives were targeted. First, is to reduce the healthcare cost, followed by effective evaluation of tele cardiac tools (tele stethoscope and ECG) at variable distances and database for medical education. This novel approach will not only bridge the gap between rural and main hospitals, but will also provide the sense of security and emotional support amongst the patients.