Communications´ role in rural health care

An outline of the system providing health care to the people of rural America is presented and how communications can be used to improve rural health care is discussed. Examples are given for the use of present and emerging technologies. The authors report that a blend of communications and health care technology can lead to increased effectiveness in the delivery of health care regardless of the location of the patient and the examining facility. They cite convergent technology as a potential solution to the health care crisis in rural communities insofar as it can support applications where expert diagnostic services and medical education resources are required. In addition, rural practitioners can maintain their skills through direct access to specialty centers and teaching institutions