Union Minister for IT and Communications A Raja today spoke on the varied ways in which Information Technology can provide the common man with easy access to healthcare.

Speaking after inaugurating the annual conference on 'Indian Intraocular Implant and Refractive Surgery' here, he said that telemedicine, which makes communication possible between doctors and patients located in remote areas, is of particular significance.

Scientists are now in the process of developing robots that would perform surgeries under the guidance of remotely-placed surgeons, he noted, adding that advanced data storage (documentation) and processing are also helping research and clinical trials.

"Advanced methods of imaging and scanning has brought about a revolution in diagnostic procedures in Opthalmology, supporting surgeons in making early diagnosis of difficult conditions of the eye and extending precise and accurate treatment options to the patient and saving vision," he said.

Raja urged well-equipped hospitals to extend their expertise to rural areas for the benefit of people who really need their help.

The government is mulling over lowering tax on medical equipment to make proper healthcare affordable for the public, he added.