UNDP-developed software helps strengthen capacity of Viet Nam’s health system

A workshop on implementation results of the grassroots telehealth program using the software "Doctor for everyone" was jointly organized by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the Ministry of Health in Ha Noi on July 20.

The "Doctor for Everyone" digital telehealth system was first introduced in 2020. Initial field testing of the system was conducted in Ha Giang, Bac Kan and Lang Son provinces in 2021 and 2022, supported by an earlier Japan-funded project as part of UNDP's COVID-19 support to the Ministry of Health.

Building on initial successes and lessons, the current project has, by design, targeted the healthcare system at the grassroots level in the five provinces of Thua Thien Hue, Quang Ngai, Binh Dinh, Dak Lak and Ca Mau.

"Doctor for Everyone" connects healthcare workers at commune health stations with district and higher-level health services to provide consultation and guidance.

Since November 2022, the the "Doctor for Everyone" software has been installed in 1,403 provincial, district and commune health facilities in the five provinces and connected to the Data Center of the Ministry of Health.

Telehealth function rooms have been established in 75 highly vulnerable communes, with computers, webcams and related equipment.

Nearly 4,900 healthcare staff at provincial, district and commune levels have been trained to use the programme. And as of June 2023, more than 755,000 community members have established accounts and around 28,000 health appointment requests have been requested in the system.

Addressing the event, Ms. Ramla Khalidi, Resident Representative of UNDP in Viet Nam said that the nation has gained global recognition and accolades for its success in improving health outcomes for everyone, a key pillar for people's wellbeing, socio-economic development and the advancement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Its long-term goal is to support the development of a nationwide grassroots telehealth system; one where grassroots health workers are supported with guidance at their fingertips, and where patients receive the highest quality care in a timely manner, she noted.

Ramla Khalidi confirmed UNDP's readiness to further deepen strategic partnership with the Ministry of Health and with these and other provinces throughout Viet Nam, contribute to a strengthened healthcare system at the grassroots level, using innovation and digital solutions./.