Benefits and Challenges of Telemedicine: the JScreen Program Experience

The purposes of the present study are to evaluate telemedicine via analysis of the JScreen program and describe the benefits and challenges of telemedicine for genetic services. There are a number of considerations in establishing and using telemedicine services. These may include technology and the need for future upgrades, overcoming difficulties in connecting with patients, state regulations on genetic testing and provision of services, and data security and confidentiality. Also, providers must adjust and expand their skills to overcome the unique challenges that may arise during patient consultation. Despite the challenges, telemedicine is a valuable tool that increases patient access to genetic services and makes provision of these services more convenient for both patients and providers. Benefits of telemedicine far outweigh the challenges, making it a favorable alternative service delivery model. JScreen provides a model for optimizing benefits and overcoming challenges in the successful provision of genetic services via telemedicine to patients across the country.