Teleneurology: Closing the Gap for Transformative and Inclusive Neurologic Care.

Abstract

Teleneurology is the delivery of neurologic care through the exchange of healthcare information across distances; it is not a technology, device, or a separate and new branch of neurology. The interest and reach of teleneurology increased exponentially as the COVID-19 pandemic posed an extraordinary challenge to health delivery systems everywhere. While in the past, rural and sparsely populated areas benefitted from telestroke as the vital and life-saving link to appropriate neurology care, currently the benefits (and challenges) of teleneurology span all subspecialties of neurology everywhere. When appropriately indicated and performed, teleneurology care provides a safe, timely, efficient, effective, equitable, and patient-centered alternative to clinic- or hospital-based care.