The service already provides a video link — in real time — with medical professionals in Happy Valley-Goose Bay helping clinics in Nain, Hopedale and Natuashish.
Churchill Falls, Port Hope Simpson and Cartwright are next, with work expected to begin in a few months.
Dr. Michael Jong, a pioneer in telemedicine in the region, said the service saves time and money, and means that patients don't need to be flown by medical evacuation to Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
More importantly, he said, telemedicine has saved lives.
"Last year we were able to resuscitate three patients successfully. I think these three patients could have potentially died otherwise," said Jong, a vice-president with the Labrador-Grenfell health region.
Medical attention in coastal Labrador communities can be difficult, because bad weather can frequently ground a flight.
Dr. Shareen Fahim, who is currently training to use the telemedicine system, said telemedicine can bring a doctor — including specialists, such as surgeons — directly into a consulting room.
"Even if the patient is unconscious or not able to talk, we are able to see things pretty clearly and give advice to the nurse on how to do things," he said.
Jong said the three new units will eventually be followed by hookups in all clinics in Labrador.
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Quelle/Source: CBC News, 31.01.2008
