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[Teleconsultation network for ophthalmology--experiences and results]
G Zahlmann1, H D Walther, B Liesenfeld
1GSF-Forschungszentrum für Umwelt und Gesundheit, Neuherberg. zahlmann@gsf.de
Klinische Monatsblatter Fur Augenheilkunde
|May 13, 1998
Summary
The OPHTEL project established a teleconsultation network for ophthalmology, successfully conducting 86 remote consultations in 10 months. This demonstrates the potential of telemedical services for managing complex eye conditions and interdisciplinary care.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Telemedicine
- Health Informatics
Context:
- The OPHTEL project, funded by the European Union and Bavarian government, developed telemedical services for ophthalmology.
- A network connected private ophthalmologists, a university eye clinic, a diabetes center, and an informatics institute.
Purpose:
- To establish and evaluate a teleconsultation network for ophthalmology using both asynchronous (email) and synchronous (videoconferencing) methods.
- To assess the feasibility and application of telemedical services for complex eye diseases and interdisciplinary consultations.
Summary:
- Over the first 10 months, 86 teleconsultations were conducted (62 asynchronous, 23 synchronous).
- The network facilitated discussions on complex and rare eye diseases, as well as interdisciplinary topics, particularly between ophthalmology and diabetology.
- Legal and security aspects of teleconsultations were also addressed.
Impact:
- Telemedical services, integrated into modern communication technologies, represent a comprehensive approach to medical care.
- The project highlights the influence of telecommunication on the management of healthcare processes in ophthalmology.