Essentials of Telemedicine and Telecare

Preface

Origins and Development

Introduction

Definitions of Telemedicine, Telehealth and Telecare

Origins and Development of Telemedicine

Drivers of Telemedicine and Telecare

Telemedicine in Developed and Underdeveloped Countries

The Future of Telemedicine

Summary

Scope, Benefits and Limitations of Telemedicine

Introduction

Types of Telemedicine

Patients and Carers

Benefits and Limitations of Telemedicine

Barriers to Progress

Summary

Technology of Telemedicine Systems

Introduction

Information Types and Transmissions

Teleconsultation System Components

Telecommunications Options

Integration and Operational Issues

Summary

Telemedicine Service Providers and Applications

Introduction

Mainstream Health Sector Services

Commercial Services and Other Agencies

Summary

Development and Delivery of Telemedicine Services

Introduction

The Strategic Context of Service Development

The Evaluation of Pilot Studies

Developing and Delivering a Telemedicine Service

Summary

Ethical and Legal Aspects of Telemedicine

Introduction

Confidentiality, Patient Rights and Consent

Data Protection and Security

Ethical and Legal Aspects of the Internet

Telemedical Malpractice

Jurisdictional Issues

Intellectual Property Rights

Summary

Telemedicine Books and Web Sites

References

Index