Jacqueline Gallet | PubMed Health

PubMed2006

Analog to digital workflow improvement: a quantitative study.

This study tracked a radiology department's conversion from utilization of a Kodak Amber analog system to a Kodak DirectView DR 5100 digital system. Through the use of ProModel Optimization Suite, a workflow simulation software package, significant quantitative information was derived from workflow process data measured before and after the change to a digital system. Once the digital room was fully operational and the radiology staff comfortable with the new system, average patient examination time was reduced from 9.24 to 5.28 min, indicating that a higher patient throughput could be achieved. Compared to the analog system, chest examination time for modality specific activities was reduced by 43%. The percentage of repeat examinations experienced with the digital system also decreased to 8% vs. the level of 9.5% experienced with the analog system. The study indicated that it is possible to quantitatively study clinical workflow and productivity by using commercially available software.

Efficiency, Organizational↗

PubMedDate not supplied

CR/DR systems: what each technology offers today; what is expected for the future.

Computed radiography (CR) is considered by some to be the work-horse for digital image capture of general radiography exams because it is affordable, offers excellent image quality and exposure latitude and utilizes existing x-ray systems. CR systems deliver digital imaging to general radiology departments and lower-volume areas that can include hospital floors and outpatient imaging centers. Digital radiography (DR) technology is more expensive, but some believe it earns its keep with significant productivity gains and the capacity for higher image quality or lower dose. DR systems are especially appropriate for emergency room settings and high-volume areas in general radiology departments, orthopedic clinics, imaging centers and other facilities. Facilities with growing patient volumes and limited space often choose to install DR systems in one or 2 exam rooms to double the productivity of those rooms, while one or more CR systems serve the remaining rooms or remote areas. Patients benefit from both faster image capture (it takes less time for each imaging exam) and hospitals achieve a digital distribution process that speeds delivery of radiology reports to referring physicians and a more efficient imaging workflow that can lead to increased revenues.

Forecasting↗