Prerequisites for Effective Implementation of Telemedicine: Focusing on Current Situations in Korea

Lee, Hyeoi-Yun; Lee, Ji-San; Kim, Jeongeun

With reference to reviewing the status of policies and technical introduction of telemedicine in foreign countries, the United States started to discuss policies focused on securing health rights in medically vulnerable areas and development of the healthcare industry since the establishment of the American Telemedicine Association in 1993. Later, Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems were established, portals for telemedicine practice of Medicare and Medicaid were launched, inventories were built for emergency situations and disaster medical response, and their efficiency was evaluated [2] . Currently, the United States implements telemedicine services, such as remote consultation and individual psychotherapy, with Medicare and Medicaid, and insurance benefits are provided for the elderly aged 65 years and over. Telemedicine thus carries the same responsibilities as face-to-face medical care.