Telemedicine, connectivity and the fly in the ointment Simon Hill, Chief Technical Officer for connectivity specialist Excelerate Technology, discusses the challenges of performing diagnostics in areas with compromised phone reception
T
elemedicine has advanced considerably over the past decade, not least because we live in a connected world. From GP consultations through to kerb-side intervention and care, that technology has developed to such an extent lives are potentially being saved and hospital conveyance is possibly reduced, demonstrates that the care pathway is evolving.
But there’s a fly in the ointment – our connected world has gaps where no, or very limited connectivity exists. Of the many advantages telemedicine has delivered, such as remote diagnostics and consultation, the most promising effect is the increase in more and more treatments being delivered away from traditional settings. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this widespread use of remote GP consultations, which has
been a major benefit for the majority of patients who are now routinely accustomed to this model of care. While this has reduced the burden for many, particularly the older generation who may struggle with the logistics or indeed expense of getting to their named surgery, it has also helped ease the pressures on GP surgeries. The fly in the ointment But what about the digital divide, or emergency care in remote areas? Or treating those who are harder to find and of no fixed abode? It’s here where the technology needs robust connectivity to ensure the transfer of data, or remote diagnoses and treatments can be fulfilled. There’s a raft of video platforms such as ExStream and even wearable devices using
66
HWM_005 Telemedicine.indd 66
03/06/2022 10:27
