Training should be hands on. Increased use of courseware for health education delivery should occur with a sensitivity to preserving the patient interaction and socialization process that occurs in all health science fields. Users need training on how to access and use electronic library resources. This should be a common issue to most or all components. Components may benefit from a UT System role in training procurement and deployment.
Reimbursement is an issue.
Currently, UTMB cannot charge for telemedicine visits. The typical cost savings identified with telemedicine implementation are transportation and security. Other barriers to implementation include jurisdictional issues, potential loss of patients due to perceived decrease in customer service due to decreased patient interaction, and managed care reimbursement restrictions. However, some consumers may view electronic house calls as a significant benefit. Telemedicine requires more than just technology and cannot be successful in isolation.