The basic requirement for set up of a telemedicine center

For a working model of Telemedicine, following are the components that needs to be interfaced

a) Hardware

b) Video Conferencing Equipment

c) Software

d) Communication channel

Hardware

   Hardware for a typical Telemedicine set up consists of the following:

• Computer with Web Camera and 17" Monitor

• Frame Grabber/Ethernet Card

• Terminal Adapter

• Laser Printer

• Scanner

Video Conferencing Equipment

         This allows the specialist to view patient/ treating doctor on other side. This can be desktop-based (low cost) but the preferred variety is a full-fledged TV-based system on both sides with a high-resolution camera. This is needed because the diagnostic images need to be clearly viewed on the specialist side.

Software

     Software consists of the following:

• Allows capture of all patient EMR (Electronic Medical Record) data such as Patient         History, Diagnosis, Vital signs, Treatment Plan, Surgeries, Investigations etc

• Allows scheduling of Telemed appointment with the specialist end

• Allows facility to transfer Medical Records to other side

• Allows confirmation of Telemed appointments

• Allows download of EMR sent from Consulting Center. Also provides flexibility in viewing diagnostic data (e.g. X-rays, Ultrasound images can be seen)

• Allows live view of CT-Scans, Doppler's/ Ultrasounds via Video Conferencing for the specialist doctor

• Allows specialist doctor to send his consultation comments to the patient side

Communication Channels

        The communication channels that are popularly used for Telemedicine are ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) and VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal).

ISDN

        ISDN stands for Integrated Services Digital Network. "Integrated Services" refers to ISDN's ability to   deliver two simultaneous connections, in any combination of data, voice, video, and fax, over a single line. Multiple devices can be attached to the line, and used as needed. The "Digital" in ISDN refers to its purely digital transmission, as opposed to the analog transmission of plain old telephone service. When you connect with ISDN, there is no analog conversion. ISDN transmits data digitally, resulting in a very clear transmission quality. There is none of the static and noise of analog transmissions that can slow transmission speed.

VSAT

        VSAT stands for Very Small Aperture Terminal. It is a satellite communications system that serves home and business users. VSAT handles data, voice, and video signals. The advantage of VSAT is that companies can have total control of their own communication system without depending on other companies. Users also get higher speed reception than if using ordinary telephone service or ISDN.