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Telemedicine
has been defined as the use of telecommunications to provide
medical information and services. It may be as simple as two
professionals discussing a case over the phone, or as high-tech
as using satellite technology to broadcast a consultation
between healthcare providers, using videoconferencing equipment.
The military tend to use the more sophisticated technology
at large medical centers.
Types of Technology:
Stored and Forward-This is used for transfering digital
images from one place to another. The "stored" aspect
comes from storing an image on a digital camera and then the
"forward" comes from forwarding it the stored image
to another location.
Two-way
interaction television (IATV)-This is used when a 'fact-to-face'
interaction is necessary. Videoconferencing technology is
used and the conference is in a real-time situation. Usually
this method is between patients and a specialist.
There
are many advantages of using telemedicine services. It can
make specialty care more accessible to underserved rural and
urban populations. Videoconferencing also opens up new possibilities
for continuing education or training for isolated or rural
health practitioners, who may not be able to leave a rurural
practice to take part in meetings and/or educational opportunities.
There
are also many barriesr to telemedicine. Many states will not
allow out-of-state physicians to practice unless licensed
in their state. There are also fear of malpractice suits is
another consideration for physicians, as is acceptance of
the technology and lack of 'hands-on' interaction with patients.
Although many patients tend to find this long distance care
satisfactory.
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