The incredible potential of telemedicine
A recent dispatch from the Progressive States Network brought together a wealth of information on the many benefits of telemedicine, and how states and local programs are utilizing this powerful new technology.
Speed Matters has also been tracking the ways telemedicine -- powered by high speed Internet connections -- can improve health care, streamline the delivery of care, expand access to health services, reduce costs, and ultimately save lives.
But as the dispatch notes, in order for all these benefits to become reality, all Americans must have access to high speed Internet connections:
The most significant hindrance to large scale adoption of telehealth has been the lack of widespread broadband deployment capable of supporting advanced Internet applications. While telehealth provides many benefits, such as transmitting detailed images, remotely monitoring patients at home and utilizing advanced teleconferencing technology for collaboration, trainings, and patient visits, it also requires sophisticated broadband services, something must rural hospitals and homes do not have. Without increased broadband deployment, development of telehealth technology will be slow, and the true service enhancment and cost savings will never be realized.
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