Stroke network saving more lives with video conferencing services

The National Health Service Cumbria and Lancashire Cardiac and Stroke Network is now able to connect patients with remote doctors in the time-critical early intervention stage of stroke through the use of video conferencing services. The network has saved more lives since it deployed mobile pratictioner carts, video collaboration software and laptops with video conferencing solutions in its various branches and in doctors' homes.

Using video conferencing solutions, stroke patients in the network can receive 24/7 care and face-to-face interaction with specialists no matter where they are located. The network is able to connect all eight of its hospitals, which service 2.2 million people in the region. Fifteen physicians are on call through the network at all times, with video conferencing services at the hospital or in their homes. Patients will also have video conferencing laptops in their homes, with advanced medical solutions that can monitor patient statistics and record data for physicians to access.

Within the medical field, video conferencing solutions are providing dermatologists with a major boost. A recent study published in the Archives of Dermatology found video conferencing can help dermatologists improve patient outcomes, assess more accurate diagnoses and manage diseases more efficiently. The researchers of the study said that by using the technology, dermatologists can reach geographically distant and medically underserved communities, Medical News Today reported.

The study found live interactive teledermatology consultations allowed physicians to change an incorrect diagnosis and treatment plan, thus resulting in an improved clinical outcome for patients. Researchers predict telemedicine practices in dermatology and other fields will likely increase in the future, as solutions are becoming more efficient and similar to in-person interaction.