Enhancing patient navigation and referral through tele-referral system with geographical information systems

Abstract

A tele-referral system with a geographic information system (GIS) integrates telehealth services with spatial data to enhance healthcare delivery. Resource constraints can significantly impact the effectiveness of a tele-referral system with GIS. Addressing delayed or missed referrals is critical to ensuring timely patient care and improving health outcomes. Implementing a tele-referral system with GIS can significantly enhance healthcare delivery by leveraging spatial data and telehealth technologies to improve access, efficiency, and outcomes. One major issue is the lack of access to specialists, particularly in underprivileged communities. Patients face accessing specialized care due to a cumbersome referral process or long wait times, as well as the lack of patient engagement. The results showed that the GIS-enabled tele-referral system significantly reduced patient waiting times and improved the coordination of care. By incorporating these functionalities and strategies, the tele-referral system with GIS can effectively address issues related to delayed or missed referrals, ensuring timely patient care and improving overall health outcomes. By incorporating these strategies and functionalities, the tele-referral system with GIS can effectively address limited access to specialists, ensuring timely patient care and optimal use of available resources.