# Revolutionalising Remote Healthcare: Unleashing the Power of Open-Source Innovation - Savonia AMK

> Padvi’s thesis offers innovative healthcare solutions by developing two prototypes using open-source technology.

## Addressing Global Healthcare Disparities
Remote areas, particularly in low-to-middle-income countries like India, face severe healthcare delivery challenges. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports a global shortfall of 4.3 million healthcare workers, exacerbated by a lack of medical professionals and expert doctors in rural regions. To address these gaps, Pritee Padvi’s (2024) thesis explores the development of two prototype models—electrocardiography (ECG) interpretation and remote monitoring applications—using open-source technology to assist medical professionals in resource-constrained environments.

## Research Methodology and Development
The research utilizes action-based and applied research methodologies, focusing on identifying challenges in remote healthcare and ageing, and developing practical applications to address them. 

Key technical considerations included:
* **Software as a Medical Device (SaMD):** Adherence to guidelines set by the International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF).
* **Knowledge-Based Systems:** Integration of heart anatomy and electrophysiology knowledge.
* **Tools and Technologies:** Use of OpenCV, open-source hardware, and the Unity Engine.
* **Collaboration:** Working with IT consultants for iterative coding and refinement.

## ECG Interpretation Prototype
The ECG interpretation application is built on a knowledge-based system (KBS) framework, which mimics human intelligence to make decisions. 
* **Inference Engine:** Uses propositional logic to process information from a knowledge base.
* **Data Structure:** Utilizes JSON format for rule encoding due to its interoperability.
* **User Interface:** Employs finite state machines (FSM) within the Unity Engine.
* **Functionality:** The app guides users through the process of capturing an ECG image, interpreting basic components, and generating a summary report.

*Note: This application is in an early stage of development, has not been evaluated by medical experts, and requires compliance with IMDRF regulations before any potential market release.*

## Remote Monitoring Prototype
The second prototype focuses on remote monitoring for older adults and individuals living independently.
* **Technology:** Utilizes Raspberry Pi hardware and OpenCV software.
* **Functionality:** Successfully demonstrated facial recognition capabilities.
* **Challenges:** Future development will focus on improving accuracy under varying lighting conditions, enhancing Internet connectivity for real-time monitoring, and integrating machine learning for predictive health analysis.

## The Role of Open-Source in Healthcare
This research advocates for open-source technology as a sustainable, cost-effective solution for healthcare in remote areas. Key benefits include:
* **Cost-Effectiveness:** Eliminates reliance on expensive proprietary software.
* **Customisation:** Allows for tailoring solutions to specific local medical and environmental needs.
* **Collaboration:** The open-source community provides continuous improvement and rapid problem-solving.
* **Sustainability:** Reduces dependency on single vendors, ensuring long-term viability for remote facilities.

## Authors
* **Pritee Padvi**, Master of Global Public Health, Savonia University of Applied Sciences
* **Maria Luojus**, Principal lecturer, Savonia University of Applied Sciences

## References
* International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF) Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) Working Group 2013. Software as a Medical Device (SaMD): Key Definitions.
* Kumar, Aniket 2023. The Transformation of The Indian Healthcare System. Cureus, 15(5).
* Moreira, Rui, Soares, Christophe, Torres, Jose Manuel, and Sobral, Pedro 2020. Combining IoT architectures in next generation healthcare computing systems. In Sangaiah, Arun Kumar, & Mukhopadhyay, Subhas Chandra (Eds.) Intelligent IoT systems in personalized health care.
* Padvi, Pritee 2024. An investigation into applying open-source technologies for healthcare solutions in remote and underprivileged areas.
* Russel, Stuart, & Norvig, Peter 2003. Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach. Second Edition.
* Wenzel, Tobias 2023. Open hardware: From DIY trend to global transformation in access to laboratory equipment. Plos Biology, 21(1), e3001931–e3001931.
* World Health Organization 2022. Q&A on the Health Workforce Crisis.