NEWS - April 2008
TELEMEDICINE
Even with support through federal grants, video-conferencing based telemedicine services have not made a significant impact in the U.S. health care system. A recent online review of Google News reveals that telemedicine is doing better in other countries (Australia, India, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, etc.). The following abstracts offer an overview of recent news.
Doctor Shortage In Australia?
As reported in The Australian, enrollment in Australian medical schools is expected to increase substantially in the coming years. A larger number of doctors, however, does not address demographic and geographic demand. Rural areas, where General Practitioners (GPs) may be in short supply, are likely to remain under-served. Overseas-trained physicians have filled the gap, but officials with the National Rural Health Alliance cite lack of incentives as a major barrier to meeting future needs. According to the Australian Medical Workforce Advisory Committee (AMWAC), the current number of GP placements in medical schools (600) accounts for approximately 55% of actual demand in 2007 (1100 GPs).
Telemedicine may offer a viable solution by enabling patient-physician consultations via audio or video links over long distances. AMWAC is being replaced by Health Workforce Australia, with the goal of increasing transparency and improving projections for health worker supply and demand.
For more information, visit: The Australian.
Home-Based Telemedicine In India
Apollo Hospitals Ltd. is offering a unique service to residents of homes built by Mantri Developers Pvt. Ltd. Quality health care monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment services will be provided by a panel of Apollo Hospital physicians via videoconferencing-based, telemedicine consultations that enable patients to be "seen" in their homes. The Apollo Telemedicine Networking Foundation (ATNF) is the largest and most established network in India, with 103 peripheral units. During the past seven years, the system has provided 36,000+ tele-consultations.
For more information, visit: Express Health Care Mgmt.
Telemedicine Initiative Implemented In South Africa
A telemedicine program is being established in Limpopo, South Africa. The goal is to eliminate the need for rural patients to travel great distances to be seen by physicians in provincial medical centers or clinics. High-tech computer and video equipment is used by health care professionals to observe patients and conduct question-and-answer sessions. Medical conditions are diagnosed, and patients receive prescriptions that can be filled in nearby locations. The videoconferencing systems are also used for education and training.
The three primary telemedicine bases include Mokopane regional hospital, the George Masebe district hospital and the Rebone clinic. Other health centers that are served by the provincial hospital will be added to the network.
For more information, visit: www.sowetan.co.za
