The Advantages of Telemedicine

The Disadvantages of Telemedicine

Types of Telemedicine

• Telepathology
• Teledermatology
• Teleradiology
• Primary Care 

Links to Other Telemedicine Sites
 

 The first telepathological system was developed in the 1960’s at the Massachusetts General Hospital.  However, it was not explored and used until the late 1990’s.  Telepathology is basically the viewing of pathological specimens on monitor and is successful in alleviating the maldistribution of pathology throughout the United States.

There are two main types of telepathology.  The first one is called Dynamic Imaging Telepathology, which is also known as “Real Time Video Imaging.” (Telemedicine: Theory and Practice)  During DI telepathology a microscope is used along with a personal computer to send images.  This method is very beneficial because it is almost as the same as the usual technique of pathological examinations.  The second type of telepathology is the Static Imaging Telepathology.  In this form, pathologists select images, store them on a computer, and upload the image to other pathologists.  Although this may seem practical, there are two main downsides to SI Telepathology.  For one, only a small number of images can be transmitted, and two, the consulting telepathologist is unable to select the images he wants transmitted.  Although much more convenient, both types of telepathology have many disadvantages.  Image quality is often an eminent problem, and often times, it is hard for pathologists to make diagnosis due to the poor quality of the image. 

 In today’s health care system, there are many uses of telepathology.  One is to, “provide urgent services at sites either without a pathologist or with a pathologist requiring back- up.” (Telemedicine: Theory and Practice)  Secondly, telepathology can, “Provide immediate access to subspecialty pathology consultants.” (Telemedicine: Theory and Practice)  For example, if a primary care physician in a rural area needs a pathologist to diagnose a disease, and the nearest pathologist is over an hour away, telemedicine can be an excellent alternative.  Thirdly, and probably the one most often used, is to, “generate second opinions.” (Telemedicine: Theory and Practice)  Often times, physicians are not sure if their diagnosis is correct and in order to confirm their decision, they can contact another telepathologist via telemedicine.  Additionally, it can, “assist pathologists in completing or refining a differential diagnosis.” (Telemedicine: Theory and Practice)  And finally, telepathology can be used to, ”continue medical education, proficiency, testing, and recertification of pathologists as well as other laboratory personnel.”  (Telemedicine: Theory and Practice)  This can be extremely beneficial to students in rural areas.  This way, they do not have to travel far to receive their education or take exams.  Obviously, telepathology has become an important aspect of telemedicine in the past few years and it will even more in the years to come.