Technologies and Clinical Videoconferencing Infrastructures: A Guide to Selecting Appropriate Systems

This chapter provides basic and intermediate-level key concepts related to clinical videoconferencing (CV) technologies for the purposes of assisting clinical administrators in choosing a CV system. It defines the common types of CV systems and considers the strengths and limitations of hardware-based versus software-based platforms, as well as web-based vs. cellular-based signal transmission. Specific products are considered and a clear pragmatic discussion of encryption security in relation to HIPAA compliance is provided. The chapter also highlights the importance of defining the specific needs of a clinical ecology on a hierarchy to help achieve a balance between optimizing clinical utility and available budget when choosing CV systems.