Low-bandwidth, Internet-based videoconferencing for physical rehabilitation consultations

Low-bandwidth, Internet-based videoconferencing was used to provide physica l rehabilitation consultation services for eight community hospitals. Video conferencing and file transmission used a PC and modem. A separate telephon e line was used for voice. Over 21 months, 47 physical rehabilitation consu ltations were completed for communication disorders, foot care, gait proble ms, orthotics, prosthetics, arm weakness and wheelchair prescription. Consu ltations were approximately 40 min long. Clinician questionnaires were comp leted by 47 individuals. While more than 80% of the questionnaire responses supported the telemedicine approach, remote clinicians rated their satisfa ction higher than did the specialists. Client questionnaires were completed by 24 individuals (a response rate of 51%). All clients were comfortable w ith and had confidence in the teleconsultations.