Abstract:
For routine communication, care providers still mainly rely on paper documents and
paper mail. Evidence exists, however, that this communication can be improved, both
by a better content of information exchange and by a more timely deliverance of this
information. At present, several alternatives to paper-based communication are available,
such as the Fax, the Smart Card, electronic mail, and electronic data interchange.
This paper describes existing communication problems, and examines the current state
of development and research aimed at improving this communication using electronic
communication techniques that are gradually replacing paper-based communication. Applicability
and shortcomings of these new techniques are also discussed.
Keywords:
Communication - Telemedicine - Networking - HL-7 - EDI - EDIFACT - PACS