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Interactive telemedicine as a tool to avoid a digital divide in the world
Georgi Graschew1, Theo A Roelofs, Stefan Rakowsky
1Surgical Research Unit OP 2000, Max-Delbrueck-Center for Molecular Medicine and Robert-Roessle-Klinik, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Lindenberger Weg 80, 13125 Berlin, Germany. graschew@mdc-berlin.de
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics
|March 8, 2005
Summary
Satellite networks enhance medical care access for EU and Mediterranean partners through telemedical applications. Projects like MEDASHIP and EMISPHER demonstrate successful implementation of teleconsultation and telementoring.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Telecommunications Engineering
- International Health
Background:
- A significant disparity in medical care exists between the European Union (EU) and its Mediterranean partners.
- Satellite-based networks offer a viable solution to bridge this healthcare gap.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the development and application of satellite-based telemedical networks.
- To demonstrate the feasibility of using standard hardware and specialized software for advanced medical applications.
Main Methods:
- Utilized standard hardware components for network infrastructure.
- Developed and implemented specialized communication software (WinVicos).
- Designed and deployed two specific telemedical networks: MEDASHIP and EMISPHER.
Main Results:
- Successfully realized various telemedical applications including teleconsultation, telementoring, and teleteaching.
- Established functional satellite-based networks connecting EU and Mediterranean regions for health services.
- Demonstrated the effectiveness of the WinVicos software in facilitating these applications.
Conclusions:
- Satellite-based telemedical networks are an efficient method for improving healthcare access in underserved regions.
- The MEDASHIP and EMISPHER projects exemplify successful cross-border health collaboration via technology.
- Further development and adoption of such networks can significantly reduce medical care disparities.