How Cloud PACS is Changing the Radiology Landscape
A fairly recent report from a data software company called peer60 reveals that when it comes to image sharing, the department that needs it most is radiology. Roughly 96 percent of providers surveyed said radiology is most in need, but coming in at a close second was orthopedics, followed by trauma, oncology, cardiology, neurosurgery and neurology. Can cloud PACS step in and solve the image sharing issue?
When it comes to making investment priorities, image sharing is certainly stepping in to claim its piece of the budget. In fact, peer60’s report says image sharing has actually become one of the highest priorities for healthcare providers as they approach their investment decisions. Not surprisingly, cloud-based technologies are among the most popular methods through which imaging needs are being met.
Not everyone has yet to step up to the cloud solution. Too many providers are having issues with repeat imaging procedures, which not only backlogs the provider, but also frustrates the patient, leading to lesser patient satisfaction levels. Not only are they exposed to unnecessary levels of radiation, but healthcare costs are also increased. Upwards of 20 percent of the image procedures carried out today are being classified as unnecessary. Cloud PACS can address this issue.
The most common answer for why providers need to share their images is related to images being shared from one site to another. The least important reason for sharing images, according to the report, was for second opinions. Regardless of the reason for why providers want to share their images, cloud PACS are increasingly being considered for offering the crucial steps to sharing images more freely and without obstruction.
Peer60’s report says that “cloud networks are the ideal technology” to use for image sharing. Nearly 70 percent of providers said PACS or cloud networks were the top options for their image sharing needs. However, only 31 percent said they were utilizing vendor neutral archiving (VNA).
Unlocking the potential of cloud PACS should involve a good dose of VNA. The best vendors are utilizing the power of VNA to open the doors for quick and easy sharing of medical images. Too many providers are running into roadblocks with their proprietary hardware and software. When partnered with a cloud PACS solution, they see near 100 percent uptime and can share with whomever they want, whether it’s across departments or to providers in other states.
The best vendors are safeguarding client data in multiple datacenters, spread out geographically so that an unfortunate event in one part of the country won’t affect data stored in datacenters in other parts of the country. This ensures that all data falls under a business continuity plan that keeps providers in direct contact with their data – always.
OffSite Image Management, Inc., knows the power of VNA and cloud PACS. Our offsite disaster recovery and business continuity plans are setting a valuable precedent for the industry. Find out more about how we can assist in bringing you the type of sharing abilities you require for better patient care by contacting us today.