This document provides an overview of the various telecommunications and information technologies available for rural communities to use in their health care systems. The first section explains the principal technologies of telecommunications such as the telephone, computer networking, audiographics, and video. It describes transmission systems that include microwave, coaxial cable, communication satellites, and optical fiber. Considerations for deciding on an appropriate transmission system are given. The next section examines programs in which telecommunication technology is applied to rural health care. Each entry presents the problem the technology addresses, the technology applied, and a program summary. Programs involve transmitting diagnostic material such as EKGs, X-rays, or ultrasounds; providing continuing education for health professionals; and allowing access to health-related databases, computer networks, or consultants. Statewide TeleHealth projects are also described. The final section provides a basic overview of some of the regulatory, legal, and quality assurance issues confronted by those implementing telecommunication systems, including legal and constitutional conflicts related to higher education delivered via telecommunications across state lines. This document contains 30 references, project and state contacts for further information, a glossary of telecommunications terms, and tables of transmission channels and compression standards and comparisons. (KS)