Dear Healthcare Informatics Insider,
Teleradiology between institutions using different PACS and radiology and hospital information systems can sometimes be a challenge, but Turkish researchers believe they have devised a way that makes the process easier, faster, and more efficient.
Based on grid computing, the framework enables institutions of all sizes to be seamlessly integrated, according to the group from Middle East Technical University in Ankara. They shared their work at the 25th European Medical Informatics Conference in Istanbul, and you can access our coverage by clicking here.
For all its benefits, teleradiology also has a number of pitfalls. It's important to understand that the major drawback is the lack of direct contact between the radiologist and the referring physician, patient, and radiographer/technologist, according to another article this month in our Healthcare Informatics Digital Community.
The value of a radiologist is more than just writing a report, and if a teleradiologist merely performs remote reading, it may mislead managers eyeing up opportunities for short-term savings, according to Dr. Elisabeth Schouman-Claeys of Bichat Hospital in Paris. She spoke during a session at last week's Management in Radiology congress held in Bologna, Italy, and you can view our coverage of the discussion by clicking here.
In the latest edition of his popular the Maverinck column, AuntMinnieEurope.com contributor Dr. Peter Rinck, PhD, warns of the dangers of old medical skills being replaced in radiology by electronic habits.
Social media is a valuable tool for improving patient care, supporting education, and enhancing visibility for imaging professionals. It's important, however, to be aware of the potential pitfalls and be trained to use it effectively and safely, according to Dr. Erik Ranschaert of Jeroen Bosch teaching hospital, s-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands. Learn more by visiting here.
If you have any tips or suggestions for topics you'd like to see covered in the Healthcare Informatics Digital Community, please feel free to drop me a line.
