Charles Sturt University’s medical students and future doctors will soon be able to better help people in regional communities who struggle to access healthcare services.
The University’s School of Rural Medicine is strengthening regional NSW’s digital healthcare capability through the purchase and pilot of Visionflex technology at the Central West Clinical School in Parkes.
Visionflex devices capture high-quality images, videos and patient vital data, and connects with specialists via video conference. This data and ability to collaborate results in a more accurate and timely diagnosis for patients.
According to the Australian Institute for Health and Welfare, approximately seven million people ─ or 27 per cent of the Australian population – live in regional, rural and remote areas.
Data shows that people living in these areas have higher rates of hospitalisations, deaths and injury, and have poorer access to primary health care services.
The technology will also be embedded into the Charles Sturt Bachelor of Clinical Science (Medicine) / Doctor of Medicine to help ensure future doctors are clinically capable and confident using technology to improve access, continuity and quality of care to patients.
Staff at the Central West Clinical School will examine how the telehealth technology can support teaching, assessment and supervision during medical student placements.
They will also explore how this approach could extend across other clinical schools and health disciplines, including a qualitative study of Visionflex use by clinicians in NSW.
Add Comment