E-health and telemedicine: Current situation and future challenges

Abstract

Demographic changes, progress in medicine technology and regional problems to provide health care to low density populations are posing great challenges to our health systems. Rapid progress in computer sciences and informatics technologies will have a great impact on the way health care will be delivered already in the near future. This article describes chances and challenges of e-Health and Telemedicine in the framework of our health systems and in particular of today’s cardiology services. The most promising applications of e-Health and Telemedicine include: 1. prevention and lifestyle interventions; 2. chronic disease management including hypertension, diabetes and heart failure; 3. arrhythmia detection including early detection of atrial fibrillation and tele-monitoring of devices such as pacemaker, ICD, and implantable rhythm monitoring devices; 4. telerehabilitation. An important challenge for those involved in these new technologies will be to keep the main focus on patient’s individual needs and to carefully evaluate the evidence behind the practice.