Abordaje de la telemedicina entre proveedores: ejemplos de uso

Abstract

Asynchronous telemedicine consultations between providers are an emerging mode of communication between hospital care and primary care. The territory of Central Catalonia has been characterized by the implementation of asynchronous telemedicine programs since 2007, always guaranteeing patient autonomy, professional secrecy and data protection. These asynchronous telemedicine programs (teledermatology, teleaudiometry, teleulcers, teleeyelids, among others) have not been understood as a replacement for face-to-face visits, but as a complement, improving accessibility (especially in rural areas) and favoring the longitudinality that is so characteristic of primary care. Over the last 15 years, a «telemedicine culture» has been created in Central Catalonia that will make it much easier to adapt to the technological changes that will inexorably take place in the not too distant future.