The convergence of information technology and telecommunications, including Internet technologies, is emerging as a key tool to drive increased efficiency and effectiveness in health systems worldwide. With part of its roots in medical research for military and space applications, telemedicine is expected to make it possible to link medical expertise with patients in the most distant locations-providing clinicians with valuable new tools for remote monitoring, diagnosis, and intervention.

“Technology Forecast” from Medical Device Link, at http://www.devicelink.com/mddi/archive/00/01/012.html.