Telemedicine

This is an interesting example of the impact of ICT on society.

Thanks to advancing technology, remote monitoring of patients via networks of specialist medical-grade laptops, cameras, video screens and medical equipment, could be the norm in a few years' time.

From - EDP 'Norfolk conference hears of telemedicine revolution' 29/6/10

This has lots of useful applications...

“This telemedicine technology would allow the GP to call the consultant and he could examine the patient thoroughly over the screen. We want to make clinicians aware of how important this interactive, two-way technology is and how much time and money it will save across the health service.”

Vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure and lung function could all be measured and monitored remotely for long term conditions. Skin conditions and wound care could also be monitored using specialist cameras.

Saves all that hassle of getting a Doctors appointment...

It is hoped the new technology would save travel costs and time for patients, be beneficial for those being rehabilitated after hospital treatment, and could prove vital in emergencies in rural remote settings.

Just a shame they've been using exactly the same ideas in places like Angola and India for three or four years.