Telemedicine - The Regulatory and Policy Challenges

Abstract

The practice of medicine is undergoing a revolution as a consequence of advances in communications technology. However, the response of legislators, policy makers and the medical profession has not always been to promote the use of telemedicine. Difficult questions of professional regulation, jurisdiction and accountability have arisen and in some cases rules and policies nave been implemented to protect local interests.

In many places the factors inhibiting the provision of telemedicine services include limitations on competition: public and private reimbursement policies that do not compensate for telemedicine services, doctor licensing rules that discourage or prevent practising telemedicine across state borders within federal systems and across national boundaries, concerns about malpractice liability, and concerns about confidentiality of patient information.

This paper examines some of these factors briefly against the background of recent legislative and policy changes. Suggestions will be made for an international approach to encourage policy and regulatory initiatives that will facilitate and not inhibit the benefits of telemedicine for all people.