ABOUT TELERADIOLOGY

The method of transferring radiographic images like X rays, CT’s and MRI’s from one location to another using the internet, for interpretation by a radiologist has become  very popular across  the globe.  Today Teleradiology is playing a big role in developed countries  with nighthawk practices. The relevance of Teleradiology in developing countries too cannot be overlooked, given the dearth of radiologists in several  smaller cities and towns to interpret cross sectional images. Teleradiology plays a very important role in transforming  health care, by removing two important barriers encountered today namely time and distance.

There are several methods of transmitting radiographic images. The basic requirement is having an internet connection. The most common method of transmission is from one computer to another. Alternatively an image sending server station, transmitting network and  receiving station are used. In remote areas where computer usage is minimal, the images can be transmitted via email.

A group of radiologists trained in various subspecialties are located in a central hub. They interpret images transferred from various facilities to their workstation and the report is transmitted back to the respective facility. The availability of a group of radiologists in a single location helps not only in giving subspecialty interpretations but also in interpreting complex cases, as additional opinions can be easily obtained. This immensely benefits patient care.

The Hospital benefits from this practice. They receive reports as and when the scans are performed, thereby facilitating patient care earlier than usual. This leads to an increase in patient referral. Wider access to subspecialty interpretations also improves the quality of specialty care.