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Aim: Introduce international standards for monitoring, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and coding of birth defects. Method: USAID funds provided for the creation of Birth Defects Centers in two regions of Ukraine (Rivne and Volyn, both impacted by the Chornobyl disaster). Both Birth Defects Centers were provided with "Web-Internet" information resources. In January 2000, population-based birth defects Surveillance applying international standards began. Digital cameras were provided to neonatologists to enhance Birth Defects ascertainment and to medical geneticists to enhance clinical diagnosis, care, prevention, and coding. Illustrated clinical histories are shared on an on-going basis with Ukrainian and international experts. Results: Tele-consultations and use of electronic information have attracted contributions by national and international experts toward the care and prevention of birth defects in relatively remote areas of Ukraine. Birth Defects Centers have attracted students, interns, neonatologists, obstetricians, other clinicians, as well as parents and support groups seeking Web-Internet access to information resources. Conclusions: Implementations of "Web-Internet" strategies in rural areas of Ukraine are key elements that upgrade birth defects diagnosis, care and prevention.
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