A telemedicine primer. An introduction to the technology and an overview of the literature
W. J. Crump and T. Pfeil
Department of Family Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, USA.
The examination of patients by telemedicine is currently experiencing a
resurgence of interest, perhaps spurred by the increase in activity in
managed care and major technologic advances. The history and recent
publications show rapid change in the areas of interactive video and
store-and-forward equipment, available communications media, and medical
peripherals. Several existing demonstration projects serve as practical
examples of the potential of telemedicine systems. Important research and
clinical care issues and opportunities for constituency building await
participation by primary care physicians.
