Using the same portable satellite terminal technology that enables journalists to broadcast news reports live from distant regions throughout the world, UC Davis physicians are delivering specialty care to patients who live in some of California's remotest communities.

"We believe portable satellite terminal technologies have the potential to revolutionize the delivery of complex health care to rural areas and expand services to patients and physicians who reside in some of California's remotest areas, where access to health care is often hampered by inadequate telecommunications infrastructures," said Thomas S. Nesbitt, associate dean for outreach, telehealth and continuing medical education. Nesbitt established the telemedicine network that brings specialty care to more than 60 clinical sites throughout California.

Unlike traditional telemedicine services, which rely on connections to high-speed, land-based telephone lines, the portable satellite terminal makes a direct connection to a satellite, enabling UC Davis specialists to communicate with patients and their physicians throughout California.