Cape Verde first introduced telemedicine services to its health care system in 2012. As a result, Cape Verdeans have enjoyed facilitated access to specialized treatment. Telemedicine services have also improved the ability of medical students and health care providers to engage in distance learning. The success of telemedicine in Cape Verde has a high potential for replication throughout the African continent.
By 2025, nearly 90 percent of Africans are expected to have access to smart devices and an Internet connection. Since this is all that is needed to receive telemedicine services, telemedicine can greatly expand health care access for millions of people in rural or remote areas. Telemedicine also improves the entire health care experience, as medical providers can more easily check in with patients who may otherwise face logistical obstacles to attending appointments.