Definitions
What is Remote Health Examination?
Remote Health Examination, or RHE, refers to the use of digital technologies that enable a healthcare professional to examine, clinically assess or obtain clinically relevant information from a patient when the responsible healthcare professional is geographically separated from the patient.
More than a video call
A video consultation alone is not Remote Health Examination. RHE depends on connected devices, real-time clinical data and, where needed, a trained person physically present with the patient — extending real clinical assessment across distance, not just conversation.
RHE may include
- Real-time audio and video communication
- Connected medical devices and diagnostic instruments
- Real-time transmission of clinical measurements, images, sounds and other examination data
- Real-time guidance of a healthcare professional or appropriately trained person physically present with the patient
- Digital clinical decision support
- Artificial intelligence, where appropriate
- Integration with electronic health records and other digital healthcare systems
A technology-neutral definition
RHEAP maintains a technology-neutral approach. Remote Health Examination is not defined by reference to any particular commercial product, manufacturer, platform or service provider. Research, education and professional recommendations are based on patient outcomes, clinical evidence, patient safety, clinical quality, accessibility and usability.
Complementing, not replacing, clinical care
RHE is intended to improve access to healthcare, strengthen clinical assessment, support earlier identification of health conditions and make specialist expertise more accessible — particularly for communities and patient groups with limited access to physicians, diagnostics or healthcare facilities. It complements, and does not replace, laboratory testing, imaging or other diagnostic procedures where these are clinically required.