Center for Telehealth and Cybermedicine Research

Telehealth Technology Basics

Telehealth technology is any equipment that allows or aids in the performance of health care at a distance. This includes but is not limited to Video Teleconferencing, Store and Forward of Medical Images, and Video Phones.

The diagram below illustrates some typical components of a telehealth system. Click on a particular piece of the diagram for a brief description and approximate costs. For additional information and support in designing a tailored system please contact the Center for Telehealth (CfTH).

Conference Room Systems

A video teleconferencing endpoint consists of a camera, microphone, speakers, CODEC and monitor. The camera, CODEC and microphone are most often integrated into one unit. The monitor and speakers are also usually integrated into one unit. The cost for a complete system varies starting at $3,000 and going up from there.

Specialized Medical Equipment

Specialized Medical Equipment to view real time patient data varies from electronic stethoscopes, specialized cameras for dermatology, 12 lead ECG and many others. The cost of these devices varies greatly. Please contact CfTH to discuss the details of devices that may best fit your application.

Video Phone

Video phone equipment uses a standard analogue phone line. Its’ primary application is in home monitoring and visitation. Various health monitoring devices can be used in conjunction with the video phone. Costs range from $200 to $1,000.

Desktop Systems

Desktop systems use the same technology and are similar to conference room systems. They are intended to be used at your desk, and can double as your computer monitor. Desktop systems provide convenience for clinicians performing large numbers of telemedicine visits. Costs range from $3,000 to $8,000 depending on the model.

Mobile Exam Room Carts

Mobile exam room carts are well suited for clinics or ICU’s where it is difficult for the patient to be moved or where a room cannot be dedicated to telehealth. The carts come equipped with battery packs eliminating the need to find a power outlet. Costs start at $9,000 going up from there.

Multi Point Conferencing Unit (MCU)

An MCU allows connection to multiple sites simultaneously. These units are typically used for distance education, grand rounds, CME classes, tumor boards and sometimes clinical applications. Costs start at $20,000 and can reach as high as $120,000.

Recording/Streaming Device

These devices will allow you to record conferences. This is beneficial in distance education applications allowing sessions to be recorded and distributed for later playback. Streaming devices allow those with internet connection to view the conference with a web browser, but not interact.

Local Area Network (LAN)

The LAN is administered by your local IT department. Some applications will require additional network connections to support them. We suggest you contact you local IT department to determine your current Telehealth capabilities. A LAN that is Quality of Services (QOS) enabled is preferred as it allows for improved quality.

Wide Area Network Connection (WAN)

The WAN connection is administered by you local IT department. It can range from T1 lines, DSL, Metropolitan Ethernet, to Wireless Microwave and Fiber. The key consideration of this connection is “does it have enough available bandwidth to support video teleconferencing”. A standard video teleconference uses about 480 Kbps. CfTH can consult with your local IT staff to determine the appropriate connection. Costs for these connections can range from $60/month to $1,000/month depending on the remoteness or you location and what technologies are available in your area.

Regional Network

The Regional Network could be the Internet, or some other network like CHECSNet, Internet II or the National Lambda rail.

Please click on the following links for more information on each www.checs.net www.internet2.eduwww.nlr.net

The public Internet will work for telehealth. Connecting to one of the above listed networks will provide higher bandwidth, less congestion and ability to provide QOS.