New innovations in healthcare delivery and laparoscopic surgery in Pakistan

Summary form only given. Pakistan is a densely populated country with major rural urban disparity in healthcare delivery. Use of Information Technology to improve the efficiency of existing healthcare services of Pakistan in the form of Telemedicine has proved its role beyond any doubts. Its advantages include better utilization of healthcare resources, early intervention, provision of expert advice at remote sites and distance education. Telemedicine/E-Health training center at Holy Family Hospital has played the pioneering role in implementation of National Telemedicine initiatives and enhancing Human Resources component in the field by structured Training programs. Another initiative at the center is establishment of Virtual Trainer Lab (VTL) to improve Minimal Access Surgery (MAS) skills of the Post Graduate Trainees and young surgeons. MAS is an emerging technique in surgery which reduces post operative complications and has a better patient outcome. Shifting from traditional OPEN SURGERY to MAS needs training and orientation to this new technology. Training of these skills in operation theaters is not safe for patients. VTL is equipped with advance training tools like box trainers, virtual realty simulators and full procedural simulators to train young surgeons in those skills without harming the patient. This Lab is a way to fast and safe skill acquisition in controlled environment.