Technology Used for Telehealth Services

Telehealth services can be rendered with limited technology such as a laptop with a webcam.  However, the more advanced the telehealth service the more advanced technology that would be needed. Examples of more advanced technology are Electronic Medical Records (EMR), technology providers such as American Well and medical devices with the ability to transfer clinical data via smartphones or cloud technology such as the Telcare cellular glucometer.

Telehealth platforms such as American Well and GetWell Network provide platforms in which health care providers can offer telehealth services to patients.  American Well offers technology that enables providers to directly consult with their patients as well as support physician to physician consults.  The use of these platforms is important as they are specifically designed to enable health care providers to consult with patients in a secure manner.  

Hospitals such as Boston Children's Hospital offers telehealth services to patients using robotic technology.   Patients who received surgery were sent home with a Vgo Robot.  The Vgo Robot is equipped with audio censors, articulating cameras, speakers and video screens that acted as the "face" of the robot.   

Providers monitor their patients recovery using videoconferencing.  This saves families from having to drive a far distance, sometimes hours, for a follow up appointment.  Boston Children's Hospital is also piloting programs in dermatology that allows parents to send photos of rashes or moles to dermatologists to determine whether or not they require a hard to come by in person appointment.  Once reviewing the photo the Dermatologist can then consult with the child's Pediatrician to determine if a specialist service is required.

As telehealth services become more popular technology companies will need to create the products and services that enable it to thrive.