Building business process on tele-ultrasonography: An international collaboration of medical technology development

Background: The existing data show high maternal mortality rate and infant mortality rate in Indonesia compared with those of several Asian countries. The aim of this study is to apply medical science and technology to improve the public health level. Methods: The study carried out in 8 sub-district public health centers randomly selected in Center of Jakarta that included survey on knowledge, attitude and behavior among patients as ECG and USG users, survey on ECG and USG in use, survey on the existing communication or transmission and survey through interview on ECG and USG operators. In addition, literature study about the regulations on telemedicine, international collaboration with Malaysia. Results: Due to limited utilization of ECG on public health centers for only medical checkup so that survey on characteristics of patients with heart disorders was not done. ECG data transfer using internet network applied by Harapan Kita Hospital-RSJPDHK for only emergency cases, whereas this study performed for only early detection. Several obstetricians felt objection if USG data taking was made by midwifes. It would be better, in their opinion, if trained general practitioners who did the USG data taking. International collaboration with Malaysia was formed. Conclusion: System, operational and regulation need development. Training on data taking and introduction of such program to consulting obstetricians. Manufacturing prototype of ECG and USG adaptor. Written agreement (memorandum of understanding) between service provider and system provider. International collaboration with Malaysia was realized.