Role and prospects of digital medical offices in the digitalization of primary healthcare

Abstract

Digitalization of primary healthcare is a priority area for modernizing medicine in Russia, particularly in terms of providing accessible medical care to rural populations. Feldsher-obstetric stations (FOS), traditionally the backbone of primary healthcare in remote areas, face a number of limitations: staffing shortages, a lack of specialist doctors, and low automation. A solution to these problems is the concept of a digital medical office (DMO), integrating traditional FOS functions with modern telemedicine technologies, portable diagnostic equipment, and electronic medical records. We analyzed scientific literature and regulatory documents for 2016–2026 and examined a pilot project to create a DMO in the Samara Region using the Health Check Up remote monitoring platform. The study results demonstrate that the implementation of the digital medical office (DMO) increases the availability of specialized medical care through telemedicine consultations, reduces diagnostic time thanks to instant data transfer, optimizes remote monitoring of patients with chronic non-communicable diseases, and reduces the workload of medical staff by automating routine processes. However, significant barriers to scaling this model were identified: insufficient infrastructure in remote areas, a shortage of qualified personnel, high cost of equipment, and unresolved problems with personal data protection. The prospects for the DMO development require the implementation of artificial intelligence systems to support medical decision-making, the expanded use of wearable devices, and software standardization. Conclusion. Digitalization of feldsher-obstetric stations (FOS) based on the DMO model can significantly improve the quality and accessibility of medical care for the rural population, provided technical, personnel, and organizational challenges are comprehensively addressed.