The Nenets Autonomous Area and the Norwegian Center for Telemedicine have drafted a project to expand regional telemedicine that stipulates innovative approaches and technologies to improve the quality of life in the Far North. It has been submitted to Norway's Ministry of Health and Care Services for consideration, reports the Nenets government agencies' website. If approved, the project will be financed in line with the Barents Health program.

Earlier, local authorities and Norway implemented a telehealth project to drastically improve medical care in the Nenets Autonomous Area's far-away districts. Under the project, which was completed this year, the area's medical personnel learned how to conduct telemedicine consultations. Five local clinics in remote communities also received equipment for diagnosing cardiovascular disorders.

The new project aims to expand the regional telemedicine network; to train doctors and paramedics and to improve their performance; to more effectively prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases; and to screen local residents for diabetes and to treat them accordingly.

A decision on implementing this project under the Barents Health program will be made before the year is out.