RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Defence Medical Services telemedicine now: a successful pilot of video consultations and instant messaging support to firm base training JF BMJ Military Health JO BMJ Mil Health FD British Medical Journal Publishing Group SP e68 OP e70 DO 10.1136/bmjmilitary-2020-001617 VO 169 IS e1 A1 Sandhu, Amritpal A1 Bartels, O A1 Booker, R J A1 Aye Maung, N YR 2023 UL http://militaryhealth.bmj.com/content/169/e1/e68.abstract AB Introduction: Telemedicine was pioneered in the Defence Medical Services (DMS) in 1998, since then the capabilities within the DMS have not advanced in step with advances in technology. We present our findings of a pilot of remote video consultation via Skype for MODNET during an arduous course held in the UK. Method: Combat medical technician sick parades were live streamed via Skype to a Defence Primary Healthcare Medical Centre and medical officer (MO) support was delivered remotely. This process was augmented by the use of Pando for still images of wounds and infection sites in order to enhance decision making and situational awareness. Results: Over a 3-week period, 34 consultations carried out during sick parade required the input from a remote MO, of those 34% required a prescription from an MO. None of the presentations required a face-to-face consultation, and all patients received MO-led care remotely. Conclusion: We have successfully demonstrated that video telemedicine consultations are safe, while simultaneously improving patient care, augmenting the distribution of medical assets and reducing costs.