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Digital health technologies in Kurdistan region of Iraq: a narrative review of enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality

Ahmed, Mohamed Mustaf (2025) Digital health technologies in Kurdistan region of Iraq: a narrative review of enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality. Discover Public Health.

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Abstract

Digital health refers to the use of information and communication technologies to increase healthcare’s efficiency and
accessibility. Healthcare systems are increasingly recognizing the need to integrate modern technologies to optimize
patient outcomes. However, promising innovations and integration into national strategies face challenges, especially
in low- and middle-income regions, including Kurdistan. This review describes several digital health technologies in
Kurdistan, including software implementation for data management, such as District Health Information Software 2,
the establishment of telemedicine services, and the utilization of machine learning algorithms for mortality prediction,
particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the numerous advantages of digital health technologies, several
challenges remain in their widespread adoption, such as the lack of a comprehensive regulatory and legal framework
for the free adoption and use of digital technologies, technical challenges, and issues with patient satisfaction. Our key
recommendations are the development of a robust digital health infrastructure to integrate digital health innovations,
enhancement of healthcare professionals’ digital literacy through targeted training programs, and implementation of
telemedicine services in remote and rural areas. In conclusion, digital health technologies, including machine learning,
telemedicine, and electronic health records, have assisted healthcare accessibility and quality in Kurdistan, particularly
in underserved areas, by providing immediate access to patient data and facilitating decision-making through clinical
decision support tools, remote consultations, and cost-efficient healthcare services.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: A General Works > AC Collections. Series. Collected works
Divisions: Faculty of Medicine
Depositing User: Unnamed user with email crd@smiad.edu.so
Date Deposited: 20 Sep 2025 09:51
Last Modified: 20 Sep 2025 09:51
URI: https://repository.simad.edu.so/id/eprint/300

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