Telemedicine: a challenge for Latin America

Authors

  • Sergio Litewka

Abstract

Telemedicine is a growing trend in the provision of medical services. Although the effectiveness of this practice has not been well established, it is likely that developing countries will share this new paradigm with developed ones. Supporters of telemedicine in Latin America maintain that it will be a useful tool for reducing disparities and improving health care accessibility. Although Latin America might become a place for research and investigation of these procedures, it is not clear how telemedicine could contribute to improving accessibility for disadvantaged populations, or coexist with chronically ill-funded public healthcare systems.

Keywords:

Latin America, bioethics, marginated communities, reform, health, telemedicine, beneficiaries.

Author Biography

Sergio Litewka

Visiting Scholar, University of Miami Ethics Programs.