Healthcare delivery in the arctic-telehealth prospects

Abstract

The Arctic region, characterised by its remote and geographically challenging environment, is home to predominantly Indigenous populations who experience significant healthcare disparities compared to urban counterparts. This paper synthesises evidence on the persistent challenges in delivering healthcare in the Arctic, including geographical remoteness, healthcare personnel shortages, and cultural and language barriers. Telehealth emerges as a crucial solution, offering a nuanced approach to overcoming physical and systemic barriers. We review current implementations of telehealth in the Arctic, highlighting successful adaptations to local cultural contexts and technological limitations. By integrating a patient-centred approach, infrastructure readiness, and relevant telehealth services, a holistic healthcare delivery model tailored for the Arctic environment is proposed. New type of technologies is also proposed to enhance remote care possibilities. This paper underscores the need for collaborative efforts in research, policy making, and healthcare provision to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of health services in the Arctic, aiming to close the gap in health equity. Key references from seminal works and recent studies provide a foundation for the discussions and recommendations presented.

Keywords: Arctic healthcare; cultural differences; health disparities; indigenous health; telehealth.