Abstract: A method and apparatus for remotely monitoring the health of a patient, the method comprising the steps of: using a remotely located data collection device, prompting a remotely located user to place each of a plurality of electrodes connected to the data collection device in predetermined locations on the user's body; causing the data collection device to read electrical data from the patient's body using the electrodes, transmitting the electrical data to a central location; and evaluating the electrical data at the central location to make a determination as to the health of the patient. The electrical data may correspond to ECG data (also known as EKG). The remote unit is preferably a handheld unit with electrodes built into the surface of the device. Thus, by merely grasping the device in a predetermined way, a remote users ECG is taken and transmitted to a medical facility, allowing for effective monitoring of such patients.