Submission ID 117058
| Issue/Objective | Sijilli EHR represents a model for an innovative and scalable cloud-based solution that could be replicated for several vulnerable populations in different low-resource or crisis settings. Sijilli EHR's contextualized design, architecture with multilayered security, and process design and implementation highlight the potential applicability of this digital health solution to different populations and settings, with specific considerations for cases of different contexts and users. Sijilli EHR has a crucial role in enhancing refugees' access to health services throughout the displacement and migration journey. |
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| Methodology/Approach | The Sijilli project was piloted in Lebanon, with a focus on Syrian refugees. The project employed a mobile, cloud-based solution to collect and preserve critical health data for refugees, through primary field-based data collection for EHR creation, conducted in Arabic. The Sijilli system collects de-identified health information across seven sections: sociodemographic data, social and lifestyle habits, medical history, obstetric and gynecological conditions, medication use, vaccination history, and mental health screening. Data is stored securely in the cloud and is accessible via USB or a secure platform, ensuring data privacy and facilitating seamless access by healthcare providers. |
| Results | As part of the pilot implementation, Sijilli EHR were created for 10,058 Syrian refugees across Lebanon. As such, Sijilli offered to these refugees the ability to access their health data securely at any health facility across the world, while seeking healthcare services throughout their displacement journey. By ensuring continuity of care, Sijilli seeks to improve healthcare access and outcomes for marginalized populations. Sijilli is based on three foundational guiding principles: data security, considering that the target population is vulnerable, and that the arrival of refugees remains a potentially politically-sensitive topic; universal access; and interoperability of the health record data. The Sijilli system is characterized by significant security features and multi-level authentication -a design suited for use in refugee camps and conflict zones. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | Sijilli EHR represents a model for an innovative and scalable cloud-based solution that could be replicated for several vulnerable populations in different low-resource or crisis settings. Sijilli EHR's contextualized design, architecture with multilayered security, and process design and implementation highlight the potential applicability of this digital health solution to different populations and settings, with specific considerations for cases of different contexts and users. Sijilli EHR has a crucial role in enhancing refugees' access to health services throughout the displacement and migration journey. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Nour El Arnaout Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut Shadi Saleh Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut |
