Expanding capability of telemedicine consultations in urology by video conferencing tools

Telemedicine consultation is an effective instrument of modern urology, providing evidence-based support of clinical decision making, optimal resource management, equality in the availability and timeliness of specialized medical care. Objective: to prove the feasibility of using video conferencing (as an additional web-based platform) by analyzing the methods of application of this instrument in urology and nephrology. Material and methods: for sampling and analysis of relevant information following bibliographic platform were used: Scientific Electronic Library (www.elibrary.ru), Pubmed (www.pubmed.org), International Society for Telemedicine and eHealth best practice base (www.isfteh.org). Based on a systematic approach used in the study methods of analysis and synthesis were used. Results and discussion: The history of telemedicine in urology, since 1973, when network of 10 "Picturephones" terminals was installed in urology department of Cook County hospital. Various technological aspects of teleconsultations, data transfer and methods of interaction of physicians with patients and colleagues were revised. Various positive results of the use of remote technologies in general urology, endourology, oncological urology and nephrology were quoted. Telemedicine technology can solve a wide range of organizational and clinical issues. Randomized controlled trials have shown that the use of videoconferencing (including mobile stations on robotic chassis) is identical to the traditional full-time visits and discussion in the diagnostic quality, level of comfort for staff and patients, safety and quality of decisions (compared length of stay, the level of complications detection, satisfaction of health care providers and patients). In addition, televisits provide more efficient logistics and optimization of financial costs.