However, a major issue was the absolute dependency on the reliability of
the mobile phone networks utilised to transmit and receive the data. This
trial utilised up to 5 different mobile networks connected to the ambulance
simultaneously with the apparent necessity of needing at least 3 to
maintain a usable data flow when all components were in use. The
conclusions drawn were that it was feasible but communication reliability
and equipment technology have to be improved.
This conclusion is also made by Lin18 in a technical study of current
Telemedicine systems available mainly in the maritime environment, but
does also cover some of the systems available (or studies performed) on
land. These range from stored data being made available via wireless and
cellular networks, specific patient monitoring (e.g. heart disease), and
wireless monitoring of patients within medical facilities.