Low-bandwidth telemedicine for remote orthotic assessment

A model for performing remote orthotic assessments using low-bandwidth comp uter communication technology (video conferencing) was developed, tested, a nd evaluated. System evaluation involved comparing a series of remote asses sments with on-site assessments. While most on-site and online results were similar, discrepancies which occurred were attributed to between-clinician differences, measurement technique differences, technical and learning obs tacles at the start of the project, and within subject variations during th e day. On-line assessment efficiency improved with each on-line session and corresponded with increased confidence in the system, easier system use, a nd better overall satisfaction. An on-line debriefing session was held with all project clinicians. These clinicians supported continued use of the co mmunication system for rehabilitation consultation and education. Clinicall y, preliminary face-to-face meetings and a regular practice schedule were r ecommended. Technically, the system was considered good; however, suggested improvements included using a high quality speaker-phone system, streamlin ing the video capture process, and providing more reliable telecommunicatio n connections.