Mobile phone as a tool in the areas of health protection

Abstract

Mobile phones are ubiquitous among several groups of population, representing an important social factor by providing the connectivity between an individual and a distant or close environment. During the decades of technological advances these devices have evolved from the basic voice-oriented gadgets to effi cient tools available on diff erent service areas. Combining custom designed soft ware, local wireless connectivity modules, motion sensors, location-estimation units and audio- visual interfaces they introduce innovative approaches to protection, preservation and improvement of health. Our Laboratory for Telecommunications is actively involved into research and development progress activities since the year 2000 with the results described in the following sections and integrated in several existing solutions under the Administration of the Republic of Slovenia for Civil Protection and Disaster Relief and Institute for Rehabilitation. Th e applications availability conforming to the »anytime anywhere« principle is enabled by mobile operators\' networks global coverage. Due to this global effi ciency the list of remote services like telemedicine, awareness, education, prevention and protection suitable for patients and medical personnel is steadily growing. Signifi cant advantages are increased feelings of safety, time and cost savings, shortened waiting queues, improved quality of life and possibilities to develop additional health-related activities.