This demonstration was primarily intended to supply the missing information to support that decision and develop a model for estimating the cost of telemedicine under different assumptions about costs and utilization. The costs of technology change rapidly. During the 2 years between the planning of this demonstration and its evaluation, the costs of the telemedicine equipment and communications services used for the demonstration fell significantly. This report is intended to help prison administrators in Federal, State, or local governments assess the fiscal impact of implementing telemedicine in their correctional organizations. It is certainly possible that telemedicine is not always cost effective but that other important benefits are obtained.
Accessibility is of special significance in prisons.
Failing to provide that access places departments of correction at substantial risk of lawsuits and court-ordered mandates. Where accessibility to health care providers is limited because of geography or other barriers, telemedical capabilities may facilitate better care. Even if the provision of this telemedicine capacity is costly, the benefits of improved access may be judged to outweigh the costs.