Application of business case analysis in planning a province-wide telehealth network in Alberta.
A strategy for implementing telemedicine throughout Alberta was developed. The model was based on a comprehensive evaluation of the four clinical specialties chosen as representative telemedicine services--radiology, psychiatry, emergency services and continuing education. The goals of the telemedicine network were to improve access to health services, provide support for rural health-care providers and increase the efficiency of specialized services. The findings showed that the success factors in a national telemedicine programme depend on a clear organizational structure, with appropriate technical standards and support.
Weaver
L
L
TecKnowledge Healthcare Systems Inc., Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada. linda.weaver@tecknowledge.ca
Spence
D
D
D000416:Alberta; D004501:Education, Medical / Q000379:methods; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000379:methods; D006284:Health Plan Implementation; D006297:Health Services Accessibility / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011871:Radiology / Q000379:methods; D019035:Rural Health Services / Q000592:standards; D017216:Telemedicine / Q000458:organization & administration*