SEPTEMBER 1998 PRESS RELEASE
ATSP Conference Promotes Telemedicine Action and Information Exchange
Jacksonville, OR (September 29, 1998): With topics ranging from regional planning to "shoot-out" equipment demonstrations, the Association of Telemedicine Service Providers’ (ATSP; Portland, OR) second annual conference emphasized the importance of audience participation to address unresolved issues. As a representative of the media, Feedback Research Services (www.feed-back.com) covered the event to provide the following meeting highlights.
In a keynote teleconference, Senator Ron Wyden (D; Oregon) discussed the accomplishments already achieved through telemedicine, using St. Charles Medical Center (Bend, OR) as an example of the diverse services that have already improved access to health care for rural residents in Oregon. The potential for geographic mismatch between health care facilities and patient populations in this state was also identified, with data gathered by the ATSP documenting the types of disparities that can exist.
Telemedicine is in the midst of a transition from the pilot program, or experimental phase, to implementation. Members of the ATSP are working together to build the telemedicine industry by sharing examples of innovations and new niches, while also identifying problems that vendors can start working on now to create viable solutions for the future.
Although all of the presenters faced some tough questions, the most pressing concerns involved Medicare reimbursement policies and allocation of funds legislated by the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Government representatives graciously handled the frustration expressed by many service provider attendees, and efforts were made to describe the most effective processes that could be used to implement changes. Everyone tended to agree, however, that public awareness of telemedicine must be expanded to encourage members of Congress to support this alternative form of health care delivery for their constituents.
The ATSP is a member organization that works closely with health care institutions and other organizations to ensure widespread access to medical care, no matter where a person chooses to live. Members include hospitals, clinics, physicians’ offices, and companies that are helping to expand health care options using advanced telecommunications technologies. For more information about telemedicine, proposed Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) regulations, and potential reimbursement fixes, visit the ATSP web site or call: 503.922.0988.
Feedback Research Services publishes reports that analyze emergent health care markets. For information about current titles, visit: Market Reports
