Telemedicine Access and Costs in Remote South Sudan: A Longitudinal Evaluation

Telemedicine services have emerged as a critical tool for healthcare delivery in remote areas of Africa, particularly South Sudan, where traditional infrastructure and resources are limited. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative data from cost analysis and qualitative insights through interviews with local stakeholders. Telemedicine usage increased by 30% in the first year of operation, but initial setup costs were significantly higher than anticipated, highlighting a need for more efficient service delivery models. While telemedicine has shown promise in expanding healthcare access, its long-term viability depends on overcoming financial and logistical hurdles. Investment strategies should prioritise reducing initial setup costs and enhancing interoperability between different telehealth platforms to ensure sustainable use.