The Pros and Cons of Teleradiology

Written by Ronny Bachrach on January 17, 2014. Posted in Digital Radiography and PACS

Pros and COns of TeleRad

The ability to transmit Medical Imaging data between practices can provide significant benefits to radiologists. However, the innovation of providing care and consultations remotely isn’t without its ups and downs.

Pros

Cost efficiency
When it comes to health care, the perennial goal is to cut costs whenever possible while improving service quality. Teleradiology can benefit both physicians and patients, as it can cost less to produce, transmit and receive images from other practices. Additionally, it decreases travel expenses, as patients don’t need to make multiple trips between offices to transport their own images.

Faster transmission for second opinions
As practices work to integrate Electronic Heath Records with other technology, they can begin to transmit patient data to other medical specialists that their patients see. If a radiologist wishes to get a second opinion on X-rays or MRIs, they can send the images in real-time to a colleague or medical professional. Teleradiology can facilitate health information exchange between practices.

Convenience
More than anything, the adoption of PACS and EHR software and development of health IT are testaments to the expedience of teleradiology. Radiologists and patients can schedule consultations a lot more easily and conduct them via video chat or over the phone. Practices that provide teleradiology can create a doctor experience that mimics that of a physical visit.

Cons

Learning curve
Teleradiology might meet resistance from physicians who are having a hard time understanding the new technology. Also, some practices may experience frequent turnover in their staff and need to dedicate time to train them in the various components of teleradiology. 

Privacy concerns
Along with errors, innovations like teleradiology come with concerns about protecting confidential patient information from hackers. While it is compliant with HIPAA regulations, there is always the potential risk of leaks when transmitting data electronically. Patient names and other sensitive identifying information can be accessed by unauthorized individuals if a radiology practice doesn’t adequately assess and address security risks.

Overcoming the cons
The right vendor can offer teleradiology options that avoid all these negatives. Providers who work closely with their medical imaging vendors can find ways to make this industry innovation work for them.

Ronny Bachrach

Ronny Bachrach

Marketing Director at Viztek LLC
Responsible for all marketing activities including, press, advertising, trade show coordination, website management, dealer and customer communications.
Ronny Bachrach
Don't be selfish share with your friends...
Share on LinkedIn0Share on Google+0Share on Facebook0Tweet about this on TwitterEmail this to someoneBuffer this page
Sign up for our Newsletter

Contact Details