The impact of telemedicine

Two doctors communicating through a computer.
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KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross. 

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor
PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — There is no doubt we are much more aware when terrorism or natural disaster occurs in any part of the world because it can be brought into our living rooms almost immediately and with vivid video detail. 

We can feel quite powerless to help, but the same technology is starting to allow us to help.  For instance, the use of telemedicine may have a greater impact as time goes on. 

Telemedicine is growing in use for areas that are hard to reach in our country, and efforts are underway to use it as a tool to help in patient care.