Doris Kaljuste

This multidisciplinary study aims to decrease cardiovascular mortality in Estonia by increasing treatment adherence and empowering patients to create a supportive self-management environment for monitoring their health and actively participating in the treatment process. Analysing 1) the LDL-cholesterol values of North Estonia Medical Centre (NEMC) patients to find underdiagnosed and undertreated patients and 2) treatment adherence to lipid-lowering drugs (LLD). Identifying patient groups who need additional support. During the pilot project, a novel application will be developed, together with personal support, used to increase LLD adherence. The novelty of the tool – combining the data used in Estonia from the Nationwide Health Information System, ePrescription, and NEMC electronic medical record with the data collected by the patient and enabling two-way communication between the patient and medical staff. In the last stage of the study, an impact assessment of the tool is planned.

The project supports Ukraine’s war-affected population by improving access to evidence-based mental health services through digital solutions. Through the DocuMental platform, at least 1,800 online psychological and psychiatric consultations will be provided, reaching 1,125 people, particularly in frontline and rural areas. Tallinn University of Technology integrates internationally recognised mental health screening tools (GAD-2, PHQ-2 and WHO-5) in Ukrainian, enabling early identification of mental health needs and targeted referral to specialists. The standardised use of these tools generates aggregated data that supports public health analysis, helping identify regional needs and risk groups and improving mental health service planning in Ukraine. In addition, eight Ukrainian mental health specialists strengthen their competencies in telepsychiatry and e-health through a study grant in Estonia.

The project is implemented in collaboration between Makerere University and Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) to strengthen Uganda’s healthcare system through the development of digital health education. The goal is to enhance Makerere University’s Master’s in Health Informatics curriculum by integrating Estonia’s best practices, increasing awareness of digital health, and supporting the training of faculty and students. Digital Health has been taught in TalTech for 15 years and Estonia is ranking in the top of the world with it's Digital Health solutions making the skills and knowledge from Estonia extremely valuable. Key activities include curriculum assessment and improvement, mentorship, training sessions, and introducing Estonia’s digital health solutions to Ugandan healthcare stakeholders. The direct beneficiaries are faculty members and students at Makerere University, who will gain access to an improved curriculum and practical skills in digital health. In addition, different dissemination activities are planned to widen the reach of stakeholders.