Getting the Most Out of Your Medical Imaging Solution
It’s not uncommon for new technologies and processes to pop up frequently where medical imaging is concerned. 2016 will likely be no different than other years, so let’s take a look at some hot topics for the rest of this year.
ICD-10
The implementation of 10th revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, also known as ICD-10, didn’t occur until near the end of 2015, which means we’ll find out in 2016 what impact it will have on medical imaging workflow. While many medical professionals are looking at the implementation and it’s affects on billing, others are more concerned with workflow and patient outcomes. Keep an eye on ICD-10-related issues in the coming months.
Workflow in General
You could be seeing a bigger increase in the amount of efficiencies in workflow due to the enhanced workflow tools that are expected to hit the market this year. These are coming from reporting system developers who are focused on assisting radiologists in reading exams and other information. Speech recognition technology has been a focus in the past, but the tools are expected to go beyond that in 2016. For example, screening workflow tools are expected to assist the increase in lung cancer screening and dense breast screening programs.
Stepping Outside the Radiology Department
Centers built solely for radiology needs popped up quite frequently until the economy started to crumble. Now, there continues to be a need for specialty imaging, which means freestanding imaging centers could be on the rise again in 2016. Onsite image centers will continue to be needed, but somebody has to read every study. Furthermore, reports have to be posted electronically within 24 hours, which means there could be a demand for better archiving and access of medical imaging studies. Could the cloud-based vendors step up even further in 2016?
New Imaging Processes
Cone beam CT systems are looking to be a go-to technology in 2016, according to action at RSNA 2015. More than one manufacturer is poised to deliver this technology to providers this year as standalone systems. They are being used for angiography procedures, extremities, and high-end IR. We’ll find out this year how big of an impact they will have on providing quality imaging studies.
Cloud-based Archiving
While cloud solutions are nothing new, providers looking for better workflow in their medical imaging processes, better disaster recovery and business continuity strategies, and cost savings should prompt more healthcare providers to invest in cloud-based image management solutions.
OffSite Image Management, Inc., has been part of the exciting growth of cloud-based medical imaging solutions that impact providers large and small. While our specialties vary, we have established ourselves as a 360-degree provider of medical imaging solutions. Need more information? Contact us today and we’ll discuss your options, which can save you money and improve your workflow in 2016 and beyond.