Japanese Telemedical Concept of Ambulatory Application

Transmission of in-ambulance data without inconveniencing or undue effort by the rescue crew—in other words, automation of in-ambulance activities (measurement/analysis, activity recording, message transmission)—is essential in implementing uniform medical control standards across the nation. However, the 3G mobile phone has propagation problems at urban area and severe congestions after major disaster to support mobile telemedicine. So we are expecting the Quasi-zenith satellite with nationwide coverage. In near future, we are expecting the data transmission of image of pharygoscopy, motion picture of light reflex, 12-leads ECG, automated ultrasonic echo and vital signs from ambulances to triage center. For example, Thrombolytic agents are reportedly effective even when injected into a vein, if injected in the early stages of acute myocardial infarction, that will reduce medical costs, resulting in high-quality services available uniformly across the nation. This paper describes our basic concept to support ambulatory application.