Suriname’s transformation towards digital health
An essential health focus in the Government's 2020-2025 declaration is ensuring affordable access to primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare for all. By transforming our approach to digital health through the leverage of digital technologies, we can enhance accessibility, affordability, and critically improve health outcomes. Significant progress has been made in containing infectious diseases, yet we face considerable health challenges: the premature loss of 170,000 productive life years annually, maternal and child mortality rates, chronic diseases, and mental health issues. Our digital health transformation promises optimized service delivery, enhanced accessibility, cost savings, and data-driven health policies that will positively impact these health challenges. Our commitment to digital health is not simply to survive, but to thrive amidst adversity, carving out a healthier, brighter future for all in Suriname.
The Ministry of Health in Suriname is committed to ensuring accessible healthcare for all citizens. As part of the Information Systems for Health (IS4H) initiative, backed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the 'Digital Health Agenda in Suriname' has been crafted. The plan commences with the digitization of government-funded basic care and public health programs. It then extends to include private primary healthcare providers and health-related businesses, such as pharmacies and diagnostic centers. Recognizing the potential of digital transformation in achieving policy objectives, Suriname's government is keen to leverage this in the health sector. This shift towards digital healthcare will facilitate data-driven decisions by the Ministry, enhancing efficiency, quality, and equality. The IS4H project team supports and guides the Ministry of Health through this digital healthcare transformation.
Information Systems for Health
Information Systems for Health (IS4H) revolutionize healthcare delivery by providing real-time data to aid informed decision-making, enhance patient care, and reduce healthcare costs. These robust systems harness the power of health data to empower healthcare professionals in rendering improved, personalized care to their patients.
IS4H ensures continuity of care, enabling seamless communication and data exchange across different healthcare providers. It ensures patients receive consistent, coordinated care irrespective of the care provider or location. By identifying and rectifying gaps in care, IS4H contributes to a comprehensive, holistic approach to healthcare.
The true transformational power of IS4H lies in its potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery. It paves the way for more efficient, effective healthcare systems by driving operational efficiencies and reducing over consumption. Leveraging IS4H leads to improved health outcomes and enhanced patient satisfaction by fostering a patient-centered approach that prioritizes individual needs and experiences.
By synthesizing complex health data and turning it into actionable insights, IS4H is at the forefront of healthcare innovation. It's not just about treating illnesses—it's about promoting overall health and wellness for all.
Meet the team
RICHARD MENDES
Infostructure Lead IS4H
GLORIA NAARENDORP
Change Management and Communications Lead IS4H
NIGUEL GUNTHER
Health Data Lead IS4H
MINOUCHE DIHAL-BROMET
Governance Lead IS4H
Team Officials
DR. R. DHANPAT
IS4H Focal Point MoH
K. MADHO
IS4H Project Manager
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