Minnesota’s ‘telemedicine’ industry cluster

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“Minnesota is establishing itself as an incubator for so-called ‘telemedicine’ firms, a growing industry that relies on software and super-fast Internet connections to erase geographic boundaries.” That’s the latest news from MedCity News, based out of Ohio. Well, OK they have a Minneapolis address too — but still I’m spreading the word.  


The article mentions a few Minnesota-based rising telemedicine stars:


Virtual Radiologic Corp. in Minnetonka — allows hospitals to send CT and MRI scans to any available radiologist across the country and receive their reads, or interpretations of data, over encrypted broadband systems.


Access Genetics in Eden Prairie — allows doctors with different expertise, like urologists and OBGYNs, to view DNA test results and collaborate on diagnosis and treatment — all through a special Web site and virtual software.


Symbios Clinical Inc. in Blaine — conducts clinical trials for the medical device industry


The business are aided by LifeScience Alley, an industry trade group. It’s great to hear about growth in any industries these days, but especially in an industry that’s opening up the opportunity for growth for jobs (and increased healthcare!) in rural areas.