Describe "telemedicine" and one ethical concern associated with it.

Telemedicine refers to the use of technology to provide remote diagnosis and treatment of patients, which makes healthcare services more accessible, particularly for those in remote or underserved areas. Because it involves the transmission of health-related information over the internet or other digital platforms, one significant ethical concern is the privacy and security of patient information. When healthcare providers use telemedicine, they must ensure that the methods of communication and storage of data comply with privacy regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States, to protect patients’ sensitive information from unauthorized access or breaches.

Moreover, with the increasing use of digital communication, there are risks associated with data transmission, storing patient information securely, and ensuring that both patients and providers are using safe technology. This concern highlights the need for strong cybersecurity measures and clear policies regarding patient data management in telemedicine practices to maintain trust and integrity in the patient-provider relationship.