MRTC Peripheral Technologies

The MRTC initially deployed as many medical peripherals as possible to all sites, without regard to costs or identified clinical needs. As a result almost all sites have electronic stethoscopes and many have ENT videoscopes. A more conservative (and practical) approach is now in use that dictates that the deployment of medical peripherals be based upon specific clinical needs or other identified enduser requirements. Several different peripheral devices are used at MRTC sites.

All MRTC facilities have electronic stethoscopes used for sending heart and lung sounds to distant specialist physicians.

Electronic Stethoscope
Click on image for enlarged view

ENT Videoscope
Click on image for enlarged view

Many MRTC facilities have video oto/ophthalmoscopes for generating a variety of patient examination images.

One of the most versatile peripherals in use is also the least expensive. The MRTC uses Sharp View Cams (Model VL-H880 or similar) as mobile, hand held examination cameras. These exam cams are usually configured on a twenty foot umbilical to allow flexibility and freedom of movement when capturing clinical images of various body parts or areas. The cameras have an integrated 3-4 inch color LCD so the operator and directly view the image being sent to the distant examiner without having to rubber-neck to see the image on the telemedicine system. They are equipped with highly versatile auto-focus zoom lenses. The cameras also have a still frame feature that captures and sends a high quality still image to the remote site. This feature is particularly useful with POTS systems and significantly enhances the quality of static images.

Sharp View Cam
Exam Camera
Click on image for enlarged view

Elmo Stand
Click on image for enlarged view

The Elmo stand (or document camera) is a tried and true accessory to any videoconferencing system. In the early days everyone tried to find new ways to mount them, turn and twist them, and otherwise contort them to do patient imaging. While they remain the workhorses of document imaging, fortunately there are a variety of more functional patient exam cameras available today.