Dialogue, Cooperation Required to Bridge Healthcare Gaps

Q: What innovations has Aidicare launched in the past year?

A: Aidicare specializes in digital health solutions to improve quality of life and support healthcare institutions in streamlining their internal processes. Our innovation process continually adapts to the evolving needs of the industry. We recently used AI solutions to make our doctors' lives easier. We also standardized diagnoses by creating a platform that helps professionals label diseases and procedures according to the 10th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) and the Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine Clinical Terms (SNOMED CT). This streamlines data collection and reporting for hospitals and governments, without disrupting the clinical workflow of doctors.

We are actively involved in telemedicine projects, including a teleconsultation initiative alongside the Red Cross. We provided the Red Cross with medical equipment kits integrated into our electronic health record system, allowing doctors to remotely monitor patients' vital signs in real time during teleconsultations.

Q: What challenges stand in the way of achieving healthcare system interoperability?

A: Interoperability in healthcare involves integrating various hospital systems, such as electronic medical records, PACS, laboratory information systems and external consultation records. In the US, the transition toward digital health began with the adoption of electronic medical records, supported by government incentives like tax benefits. This initiative led to a 70% adoption nationwide.

However, achieving interoperability in Mexico is a multifaceted challenge that necessitates collaboration between the private sector and the government. Relying solely on private initiatives may not be sufficient. Mexico's overarching goal is to establish interoperability across its entire healthcare system, spanning 27 health jurisdictions, in line with its universal healthcare model. Similar efforts have been explored in India and the UK, among others. While some information-sharing initiatives exist within Mexican healthcare systems, they fall short of the comprehensive integration envisioned.

Q: What measures or initiatives has Aidicare implemented to ensure the safe and ethical use of patient data?

A: Aidicare has implemented several measures to ensure the safe and ethical use of patient data. Traditionally, patient data belong solely to the patients themselves. However, we now understand that healthcare providers also have a stake in this data. As per the Mexican official norm, we retain patient data for up to five years.

Inspired by Australia's approach to digitizing healthcare, we adopted similar principles. Australians use an app to upload their medical records and control with whom they share this data. However, for certain medical conditions with implications for public health, such as contagious diseases, concealing information is not permitted. Government involvement is crucial in these cases.

To prioritize data privacy, we strictly adhere to cybersecurity best practices. We offer healthcare institutions flexibility in data hosting, with many institutions choosing us for added data security. Data breaches, often the result of individuals mishandling data, are a significant concern. We take this matter seriously and educate our clients on proper data transmission protocols.

Q: How have Aidicare's focus on preventive medicine and interconnected ecosystems evolved and what impact do these concepts have on patient care?

A: Our emphasis on preventive medicine and interconnected healthcare ecosystems is exemplified through Aidicare Remote Patient Monitoring. Telemedicine encompasses a broader spectrum of services beyond teleconsultations, such as tele-radiology, tele-pathology and tele-dermatology. Aidicare's focus lies in remote patient monitoring (RPM), allowing continuous observation of patients outside the hospital environment.

We use an application to track essential vital signs like blood pressure, glucose levels, oxygen saturation, weight and body temperature. Patients use this app and their data is collected and stored. If certain thresholds are breached, the system triggers alerts to healthcare providers and family members, keeping all stakeholders informed. This remote patient monitoring system, widely used in the US and the EU, empowers patients to take control of their health.

While incorporating medical devices from companies like OMROM is part of the equation, Aidicare recognizes that patient adoption is critical. Aidicare's innovation ensures data authenticity, addressing concerns about patients by providing accurate information during healthcare visits, particularly for chronic conditions. This authenticity enhances the quality of care and patient outcomes.

Q: What collaborations or partnerships is Aidicare exploring to enhance synergy between sectors and strengthen the healthcare system?

A: Aidicare is actively exploring collaborations, including partnerships with organizations like the Red Cross and educational institutions like Tec de Monterrey. These collaborations aim to leverage technology and innovation to enhance healthcare in Mexico. Our long-term goal is to make the Mexican Red Cross the central hub for digital medical records in the country, simplifying data access and communication between healthcare providers. Aidicare won an award for its work in 5G technology, furthering its efforts to improve healthcare connectivity and data reliability. This recognition aligns seamlessly with our ongoing collaboration with the Red Cross, as we channel the awarded prize towards advancing our shared goals.

It is noteworthy that we are currently engaged in a partnership with Médica Sur, recognized as the premier hospital in Mexico. Within this collaboration, we have introduced a cutting-edge digital system, represented by a robot positioned on hospitalization floors. This robotic system serves as a repository for health-related information, diligently recorded by nurses. Its primary function is to offer comprehensive insights into the patient's health status and progression. This stored data facilitates timely monitoring by doctors, fostering a seamless connection between patients and healthcare providers.

Q: How can healthcare access be improved in remote areas of Latin American countries, considering technology and infrastructure challenges?

A: Remote areas present opportunities for advancement despite the existing challenges. Collaborative efforts involving both public and private sectors, along with a commitment to innovation, are pivotal. The first step is to identify the pain points within the current healthcare system. By pinpointing these challenges, healthcare providers and innovators can develop tailored solutions that directly address specific needs. An effective approach involves aligning healthcare services with the available technology. For example, RPM solutions accessible through platforms like WhatsApp can extend access to those with basic mobile phones. In regions lacking reliable internet access, the introduction of kiosks with satellite connectivity empowers individuals to independently access healthcare services.

Moreover, it is paramount to forge partnerships with local healthcare stakeholders and conduct research to adapt healthcare services to the region's distinctive challenges. These collaborative efforts streamline the development and implementation of practical and efficient solutions.

Aidicare believes that digital health serves as a powerful tool to improve patients' overall quality of life. Collaboration between the medical field and technological innovation is essential, even when challenges arise due to differences between technology and medical requirements. By fostering open dialogue and cooperation, we can bridge these gaps and advance healthcare to benefit patients.

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