Urgent response telecardiology services and training--collaboration between Onassis Cardiac Surgery Hospital and Aegian Islands' Health Care Centers.

Since 1995, Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center participates in the development of Telecardiology Services in Greece. Existing connections include the islands Skiathos, Naxos, Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Plomari and Amorgos. First hundred fifty three (153) cases have been already analysed. Eleven of them were acute myocardial infarctions and have been treated by thrombolytic medication (anistreplase). The participation of physicians and nurses was valuable for the success of the program and their further involvement in the new area of Telemedicine. The purpose of the project was to offer high quality cardiac services in remote area patients and to provide specific training in telemedicine issues to health care professionals.