[Telemedicine: interaction between clinic and general practice].
BACKGROUND
The rapid development of information and communication technologies has led to a change of many practical aspects of professional and private life. These technologies also influence interactions between hospitals and outpatient units.


METHODS
This paper provides an overview over current telemedical developments with effects on interactions between in- and outpatient units.


CONCLUSIONS
Probably the most important application of telemedicine in Germany is not distant patient care but an improved communication structure between different health care providers. Candidates for first routine applications are electronic medical reports and teleconsultations. The widespread use of telemedicine will be accompanied by an increased standardisation in medicine.
Geisthoff
U W
UW
Klinik und Poliklinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde, Universitätskliniken des Saarlandes, Homburg/Saar. Urban.Geisthoff@uniklinik-saarland.de
Federspil
P A
PA
Sittel
C
C
Plinkert
P K
PK
D005544:Forecasting; D005858:Germany; D006751:Hospital Information Systems / Q000639:trends*; D006801:Humans; D010036:Otolaryngology / Q000639:trends*; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000639:trends*; D019114:Remote Consultation / Q000639:trends; D017216:Telemedicine / Q000639:trends*