Telemedizin in der Hausarztpraxis-Aspekte der Kommunikation

Many family physicians have concerns about the suitability and implementation of telemedical solutions to everyday practice. A workshop was held on this topic at the 51st Congress of the German College of General Practitioners and Family Physicians (DEGAM) in Düsseldorf. In this workshop, practitioners, members of other health professions, as well as students, discussed their own experiences with already existing solutions. Expectations and needs of participants were inquired. During these discussions, the communicative component of telemedicine was highlighted-an extension of the ability of the practice to communicate. The majority of workshop participants expressed the desire for an instant messaging application (safe data protection provided), for communication with the practice. This workshop also identified the need to continue future discussions within DEGAM regarding meaningful use and implementation of telemedicine. One objective of future discussions could include taking steps to address closing the current gap between regulations mandated by the e-health-law and practical implementation of telemedicine technologies within family physicians' practices.