Insight into Various Aspects of Telemedicine: an overview

The field of Telemedicine (literally meaning medicine at a distance) is one of the most advancing and upcoming techniques worldwide, having enormous potential in the future. In India also, it has proved to be successful, convenient and popular among the patients along with the health care professionals. However, due to inadequate case laws and legislation in this area, it is suggested that guidelines need to be effectively implemented to safeguard the interests of both. This article attempts to outline some of the medical, legal and ethical issues related to telemedicine, focussing on the professional relationships with the patients with regards to liability, responsibility, accountability as well as issues of security and confidentiality.