<p>Joseph C. Kvedar, M.D. Director, Partners Telemedicine Vice-Chair, Dermatology, Harvard Medical School</p><p>Joseph C. Kvedar, M.D., is the Founder and Director of Partners Telemedicine, applying communications technology and online resources to increase access and improve the delivery of quality medical services and patient care. Partners Telemedicine works with Harvard Medical School-affiliated teaching hospitals, including Massachusetts General and Brigham and Women’s Hospitals. Dr. Kvedar is also a board-certified dermatologist and Vice-Chair of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School.</p><p>In his role with Partners Telemedicine, Dr. Kvedar launched the first physician- to-physician online consultation service in an academic setting. He is also leading important research into novel approaches for telemedicine in a variety of medical specialties, including post-operative care in the home, wound care, and remote monitoring of patients with chronic diseases. </p><p>In establishing the new Connected Health Initiative, Dr. Kvedar is bringing together a number of collaborators from technology, healthcare and academic organizations, to create a more patient-centered health care delivery system using communications technology.</p><p>Dr. Kvedar is the Immediate Past-President and member of the governing Board of the American Telemedicine Association (ATA). Dr. Kvedar is also Chair of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Task Force on Telemedicine.</p><p>Dr. Kvedar is internationally recognized for his leadership and vision in the field of telemedicine and the application of communications technologies to improve healthcare to patients. Dr. Kvedar is co-editor of a new book, Home Telehealth, which will be published in May 2006. He is a frequent lecturer and has authored over 60 publications on telemedicine and Connected Health. In 2003, Dr. Kvedar was honored by the New England Business and Technology Association for his extraordinary leadership in the field.</p>