Communication in integrated practice networks: using interactive video technology to build the medical office without walls.

As groups of physicians join networks to maximize their effectiveness with managed care systems, frequent communication and joint development of standardized clinical protocols become important. For physicians who are accustomed to being independent, frequent meetings are necessary to make these networks succeed. In larger networks, travel time becomes a significant drain on clinical effectiveness. Interactive video technology (IVT) providing full-motion two-way video communication is one potential solution to this problem of geography and time. The experience of our academic department with IVT is summarized and practical advice is provided for those considering the use of this new technology.