Evolving Regulations in Telemedicine Pilot Project: Insights Into Law, Practice, and Patient Care through International Case Studies

Abstract

The primary focus of this research is the evolving landscape of telemedicine policies and practices across various countries, with particular attention to recent initiatives in South Korea. This study is crucial for understanding the implications of institutionalizing telemedicine, especially following the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It aims to ensure the delivery of quality medical services through remote healthcare systems. The objectives include analyzing changes in international telemedicine policies post-COVID-19, comparing these changes with South Korea's policies, and identifying best practices for the domestic institutionalization of telemedicine. The research examines telemedicine policies and practices in South Korea, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, and Australia. Key variables analyzed are eligibility for telemedicine, types of diseases treated, telemedicine platforms, drug prescriptions, drug delivery, responsibility for telemedicine, and cost. Data were collected from policy documents, legal frameworks, and pilot project outcomes and were analyzed to identify trends, differences, and potential areas for policy development. Telemedicine policies vary significantly among countries, with different approaches to patient eligibility, disease types treated, platforms used, prescription and delivery of drugs, legal responsibilities, and costs. South Korea's telemedicine policy is in its early stage, recently expanding to include all patients with prior face-to-face treatment within six months. The initial hypotheses that telemedicine policies are rapidly evolving and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach were supported. The findings suggest that telemedicine is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration ofvarious medical, legal, and technological aspects. South Korea's approach to telemedicine should be customized to its unique healthcare environment, focusing on patient health and alignment with national healthcare priorities. Future research should explore the development of a comprehensive system for telemedicine that addresses patient needs, provider capabilities, and regulatory requirements, with an emphasis on creating a global benchmark for personalized telemedicine.