[Holter electrocardiogram network system to support regional medical care]

To support regional medical care, the clinical laboratory of Kochi Medical School Hospital developed a Holter electrocardiogram (ECG) network system with regional hospitals. Holter ECG data are received from the regional hospitals and reports are sent back using the Internet. When Holter ECG shows recordings which need immediate attention such as ventricular tachycardia or ischemic ST changes, a medical technologist contacts the regional hospital immediately. The reports are checked and approved by a cardiologist who also gives advice to doctors concerning the treatment of patients. By using the medical facilities and personnel of the university hospital, this system provides rapid and appropriate medical care for patients in our area. Moreover, improvement in the skills and knowledge of the technologists in our hospital was achieved using the Holter ECG network system.