In developed countries like the United States, stroke is still the third leading cause of death. In fact, each year stroke occurs in more than 700,000 patients, leaving many with disabilities and unable to resume a normal life. When a stroke occurs, every second counts. The sooner a stroke victim is treated with medication that breaks up blood clots and restores blood flow to the brain, the less chance the patient will suffer permanent damage such as the loss of muscle control, mobility, or ... [Read More]
rural healthcare
How Can Telemedicine Increase Access to Medical Care?
You may have already used it without even realizing it. Have you ever relayed questions about your health to your doctor or health care professional and then received an answer via email? Have you consulted with a nurse over the telephone? Have you ever shown an injury or physical ailment to your doctor via emailed photos or a webcam? Well, you may not have realized it, but you were using telemedicine. What Exactly Is Telemedicine? Health care practices continue to evolve with technological ... [Read More]
Telemedicine in Rural Areas: What is the Connection?
Access to Health Care Is Diminishing in Rural Areas Access to quality health care services is critical to good health. Yet, for the 19.3 percent of the population (about 60 million people) who live in rural areas, the access to health care is far less than that available to people living in urban areas. In America, rural areas have only 39.8 physicians per 100,000 people, compared to 53.3 physicians per 100,000 people in urban areas. And, when it comes to hospitals in rural areas, the news is ... [Read More]