Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association
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Emergency healthcare systems in rural communities often have limited access to experienced trauma and emergency physicians. Advanced telecommunication technologies may offer an opportunity to help meet this need. We evaluated healthcare providers' satisfaction with the audio and visual components of an existing telemedicine system, and asked them whether emergency medical services (EMS) personnel could be supported via telemedicine guidance, using video laryngoscopy and ultrasonography, during vulnerable transport periods. ⋯ The rating for laryngoscopy was significantly higher than for ultrasound (p = 0.01). Results of this study suggest that telemedicine may provide an advanced support mechanism for rural EMS personnel and patients. Procedures for advanced airway management and ultrasound diagnosis may someday be managed using a remote telepresence.