The Future of Telemedicine

Abstract

Telemedicine, or the delivery of healthcare services via distant communication technology, has grown in importance in recent years. Telemedicine has the ability to alter healthcare delivery and enhance access to treatment for patients in rural and underserved locations. However, there are significant barriers to mainstream telemedicine adoption and implementation, including data privacy and security, funding, and the need for standardization. The authors review telemedicine's current situation and future potential by discussing new technologies that will shape the future of telemedicine, such as 5G networks, augmented and virtual reality, and wearable gadgets. Then the chapter discusses the growing use of telemedicine and its role in improving access to healthcare in rural and underserved areas. In addition to discussing the benefits for telemedicine, the chapter delves into the problems and limits that must be solved before it may achieve its full potential. Finally, it analyzes the future of telemedicine, including prospective uses and interaction with traditional healthcare systems.