Theme 2. Telehealth and Communication Technologies in Health: Summary and Action Plan

Abstract

Introduction:Rapid innovations and improvements in communication technologies have opened many new channels for health education and delivery, as well as disaster management. Theme 2 examined the role and applicability of these technologies to Disaster Medicine and Management and the various issues involved in their use.Methods:Details of the methods used are provided in the introductory paper. The chairs moderated all presentations and produced a summary that was presented to an assembly of all of the delegates. The chairs then presided over a workshop that resulted in the generation of a set Action Plans that then were reported to the collective group of all delegates.Results:Main points developed during the presentations and discussion included harnessing convergence, seeking interoperability, building partnerships and making it appropriate. This group identified four Principles of Action underlying its plan: (1) investigate possibilities, (2) identify stake-holders, (3) invite participation, and (4) involve discussants in activities.Discussion:Action plans were categorized into three areas that included “thinking globally, acting regionally”, forming a telehealth advisory group, and increasing corporate partnerships.Conclusions:Technology is opening many opportunities that have applications in disaster management. To optimize benefits, goals and standards must be agreed upon and implemented.

Leadership and Use of Standards by Australian Disaster Medical Assistance Teams: Results of a National Survey of Team Members

“…Effective exchange of information and international decision-making in disaster management requires a high degree of interoperability among a large number of organizations through common infrastructures. 33 Problems in coordination may arise due to poor leadership, as without a strong chain of command and proper protocols in place, confusion is inevitable. 34,35 Team leaders also have a broad range of responsibilities other than overall success of the mission, and must be concerned with team composition, transportation, communication, re-supply, and safety of team members.…”

“…While clearly defined roles and responsibilities enable effective collaboration, there is a need for greater standardization of language, including terms and definitions, and use of color coding and symbols for personnel and materials 32 including identification of leaders. Effective exchange of information and international decision-making in disaster management requires a high degree of interoperability among a large number of organizations through common infrastructures 33 . Problems in coordination may arise due to poor leadership, as without a strong chain of command and proper protocols in place, confusion is inevitable 34 , 35 …”

Logistic support provided to Australian disaster medical assistance teams: results of a national survey of team members

“…This is not restricted to international response—access to batteries and recharging may also be problematic with domestic deployment (50). Options include radios with the ability to change frequencies or operate underground, satellite phones, laptop computers and fax machines (31), while satellite communications has been used for telehealth in India and disaster management in large remote areas (66, 67). The further development of wireless technology and peer networks may offer increasing solutions (59, 60).…”

“…To achieve broad based, proficient handling of communications technology, it must be appropriate, easy to use, meaningful to the user, and capable of overcoming language and cultural barriers (61, 67). While dedicated communications support is essential, and a common team element (20, 21), all team members need to be trained in use of communications equipment (40).…”