Embodiment methods of treating a human or animal patient using a remotely controlled catheter insertion system include inserting a catheter handle of a catheter into a handle controller of the remotely controlled catheter insertion system, operating the catheter remotely with the remotely controlled catheter insertion system to introduce the catheter into a body of the patient, and performing a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure on the patient using the catheter. Diagnostic or therapeutic procedures may include a mapping procedure, an ablation procedure, an angioplasty procedure, a drug delivery procedure; an electrophysiology procedure, a radiological procedure, and a medical device implantation or positioning procedure.