Only a decade ago (2001), Interactive videoconferencing required the combination of dedicated audio, video, and networking technology for real-time communication. Groups of people gathered in a specific setting, often a conference room, to communicate with other groups of people on a virtual face to face basis. In health care, it made possible direct patient care contact between a specialist and a patient separated by considerable distance, or the conduct other medical business in lieu of travel.

By 2010, simple to use software like Skype and technological advances like the 4G Apple IPhone have basically removed cost & technology barriers to videoconferencing. The widespread use of these innovations has also removed the psychological barriers to acceptance of videoconferencing communication. In the health care realm, a key change has been has been introduction of Telemedicine billing codes and the willingness of third party payors to reimburse for such services. Public Education has seen videoconferencing gains in special education, but its widespread use remains hindered by lingering concerns over student access to the internet during school hours.