" . . . accomplished with a webcam and computer screen?"
I agree with you.
Recently - I see a trend emerging that by using an iPhone with Apps - the same tasks can be accomplished - really well - even in remote medical facilities. The Doctor and the patient - can exchange information very well and on familiar iPhone platform.
Easy example is in Dermatology when the iPhone camera can be positioned on a specific body region for the Doctors observation. This positioning can occur easier for the patient than trying to position the patients body to the telemedicine units camera.
We are testing this method right now.
Don Nagy
949 258 3451