IEEE Pushes for Greater Access to 4G Technology for Rural Healthcare Providers

Experts from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers are urging for improved access to 4G wireless technologies, which could improve healthcare and telemedicine in rural areas, according to a Government Health IT news report.

Earlier this year, IEEE 802.16m, an advanced 4G wireless standard, was approved. The new standard, among other aims, would pave the way for higher quality healthcare through telemedicine.

Researchers have pointed to the growing rate of wireless technology adoption among rural and developing communities. Wireless technology not only can dramatically boost providers' ability to more quickly access data and connect with other providers; it could also allow individuals to become more involved with their own health, according to the news report.

"Increased bandwidth through 4G will open many doors for rural areas of the world that do not currently have easy access to advanced data networks," said Shuzo Kato, IEEE Fellow and inventor of the TDMA chipset in 1986. "For example, medical doctors could instantly and remotely connect via video to rural areas to guide emergency workers in treating the sick or injured."

Read the news report about 4G wireless technology in healthcare.

Related Articles on Telemedicine:
Study: 7% of Physicians Use Video Conferencing to Communicate With Patients
CMS Final Rule Eases Hospital Privileging for Telemedicine
ATA Urges CMS to Remove Medicare Restrictions on Telemedicine

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