A telemedicine primer. An introduction to the technology and an overview of the literature.

The examination of patients by telemedicine is currently experiencing a resurgence of interest, perhaps spurred by the increase in activity in managed care and major technologic advances. The history and recent publications show rapid change in the areas of interactive video and store-and-forward equipment, available communications media, and medical peripherals. Several existing demonstration projects serve as practical examples of the potential of telemedicine systems. Important research and clinical care issues and opportunities for constituency building await participation by primary care physicians.