Telemedicine: benefits, disadvantages and ethical challenges

Nowadays، electronic communications technology propounds new forms of the patient-physician relationship in the field of medicine. Effective communication between the patient and the physician can play a crucial role in the process of treatment. This new form of communication greatly influences promotion of the health system by improving access to inexpensive and fast services regardless of geographic boundaries. In times of crisis، telemedicine plays an important role in delivering health services to deprived areas in a just manner. Usage of communications technology is inevitable، and due to the virtual nature of this kind of medical communication، recognition of certain ethical considerations seems essential. Successful examples of telemedicine are abundant throughout the world and usage of this technology is a helping solution for inadequacies in the healthcare system. In Iran، because of the geographical extent of the country، this technology can provide access to medical services in some cases. In order to achieve the best outcome in telemedicine، it is essential to respect confidentiality، privacy، informed consent and commitment to professionalism in this field.