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Telemedicine services through cable TV and interactive TV networks

Abstract:

Recent technological advances in Cable TV (CATV) networks foster the development of new telemedicine applications based on such technologies. CATV networks offer a broadband communication path in their trunk section as well as in the local loop, thus allowing to establish real time, interactive video and audio channels. These opportunities are giving rise to several medical services at home, such as: 1) medical tele-visiting for chronic patients, disabled and elderly people; 2) tele-rehabilitation and distance learning; 3) hospital tele emergencies and first aid. The implementation of these services requires a detailed study of its characteristics, such as, for example, CATV network requirements, suitable topologies, home requirements and health centre requirements. © 1997 The authors.