Maria Magdalena Bujnowska-Fedak
Public Health and Governance, Volume 11, Issue 4, 2013, pp. 302-317
https://doi.org/10.4467/20842627OZ.14.030.2169Telemedicine, using modern information and communications technology, combines the needs of patients and technological progress, crossing the barriers of traditional health care systems. At the same time, as indicated by demographic forecasts around the world, especially in Europe, there is the phenomenon of fast aging population. Although older people certainly do not belong to the biggest and most active supporters of Internet users and telemedicine services, it is the elderly because of their special multimorbidity, the need for taking multiple medications and regular check-ups, are the most common and most demanding beneficiaries of medical services. Modern information and communication tools can become essential support for them, by which elderly, remaining under constant supervision and care, may stay in a friendly home environment. The paper defines the concept of telemedicine, e- health and e – health services and extensively presents the latest telemedicine applications, e-health services and medical information management systems, dedicated in particular older people.