Telemedicine and telehealth: an Italian and UK perspective

Authors

  • Massimo Capoccia University of Strathclyde image/svg+xml
  • Claudio De Lazzari Institute of Clinical Physiology
  • Domenico M. Pisanelli Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies
  • Beatrice De Lazzari 4th University of Rome

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52340/mid.2021.637

Keywords:

Telemedicine, Telehealth, COVID-19, Cardiovascular Disease

Abstract

Background

On January 30, 2020, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the international outbreak of new coronavirus 2019-nCoV (Public Health Emergency of International Concern -PHEIC), as enshrined in the International Health Regulations (IHR, 2005).The current pandemic has uncovered our vulnerability and fears turning our lives upside down.We have been forced to a more resourceful approach with a view to contain and limit potential damage.The current events have put significant strain on hospital organisations all over the world.

Objective

At a time when, in the absence of specific therapy to treatcardio patients and a vaccine only recently approved, social distancing is one of the main measures used to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine is gaining ground as a key technology for safe and efficient communication between doctors and patients.The aim is to highlight the major role played by telemedicine and telehealth during the pandemic with reference to the potential implications for the foreseeable future.

Methods

We have attempted to give a survey on telemedicine and telehealth applications in Italy and UK before and during the management of the pandemic.

Results

Some examples of the application of telemedicine and telehealth with reference to their impact and relationship with end users have been highlighted.

Conclusion

Telemedicine and telehealth are likely to become more established in the future. We may have to reconsider our current working patterns towards a more beneficial and cost-effective way of living and working.

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Author Biographies

Massimo Capoccia, University of Strathclyde

Royal Brompton Hospital, Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, UK

Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK

Claudio De Lazzari , Institute of Clinical Physiology

National Research Council, Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC-CNR), Rome, Italy

Teaching University Geomedi, Tbilisi, Georgia

Domenico M. Pisanelli , Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies

National Research Council, Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, Rome, Italy

Beatrice De Lazzari, 4th University of Rome

Foro Italico  4th University of Rome, Italy

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Published

2021-11-16

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