Technology and solutions

To be able to benefit from telemedicine equipment and new technological solutions in the public health service, we need an infrastructure that creates the foundation for using this type of modern technology.

It is important that:

• The network has adequate capacity
• The quality and stability of the system fulfil the communication requirements
• Security is sound
• The infrastructure between everyone who is to transmit and to receive fulfils the requirements
• Local routines and skills are adequate for the technical operations

Telemedicine equipment

Telemedicine equipment is regarded as medical equipment, according to a clarification from the Norwegian Board of Health (Statens helsetilsyn).  It must thus fulfil the requirements that apply to medical electrical equipment (IEC 60601-1). Videoconferencing equipment is however classified as computer equipment, and an isolating transformer must be installed between videoconferencing equipment and the electrical distribution if equipment is to be used in rooms in which patients are diagnosed and treated.

Technical considerations

Continuing advances in technological development mean that new equipment, new standards, improved communication lines, etc. are making their appearance all the time. The requirements for technical equipment and communication must therefore be carefully assessed with regard to need, availability, and price. The choice of equipment must be considered in the context of the needs analysis.

Existing equipment in the region or organization should also be taken into account in the selection of equipment and communications solutions, to ensure that the telemedicine solution provides all the desired functionality.

Relevant questions in the technical evaluation include:

• What is the state of the technical infrastructure (the health network) in the region?
• How much of the necessary technical equipment (such as computing and medical equipment) is available in the region and the institution, including general practitioners' practices and administrative units?
• Will the existing equipment or new investments in technology comply with the national and international standards in effect? 
• Who is responsible for maintenance of technical equipment, workstations, etc., at the institutions and units involved?
• Who provides training in the use of telemedicine equipment - the supplier, medical technology staff or IT staff?
• Is broadband critical for the telemedicine services chosen?
• How has security been taken care of by suppliers and internally in the organization? 

Contact person at the NST

Stig Karoliussen, videoconference technologist, mobile telephone +47 415 15 090 and email stig.karoliussen@telemed.no

Getting to know your network A successful meeting or black screens. Videoconferencing is a useful tool for sharing knowledge over long distances and for saving travelling time and money, but it calls for good preparation and regular follow-up. Read more...

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