How Does Teleradiology Actually Work?

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, the prominence and necessity of teleradiology have surged to the forefront. With advancements in technology and the growing demand for efficient, timely, and accurate diagnostic services, especially in light of staffing shortages, teleradiology has emerged as a pivotal solution. Teleradiology not only addresses the increasing demand for imaging interpretations but also bridges geographical gaps, enabling swift access to specialized radiologists regardless of location. Its rising popularity stems from its ability to enhance healthcare delivery by offering remote interpretations, thereby improving patient outcomes and streamlining diagnostic processes in a progressively interconnected world.

Teleradiology operates by leveraging digital communication technologies to transmit medical images, such as X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds, from one location to another for interpretation and diagnosis.

Here’s a breakdown of how teleradiology works in real time:

Image Capture: Medical images are taken at a healthcare facility using specialized imaging equipment, creating digital files.

Image Transmission: These digital images are securely transmitted over networks, often utilizing Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) or secure internet connections.

Remote Interpretation: Radiologists, often located at a different site or working remotely, receive these images. They access the images through specialized software, review them in real time, and provide interpretations, diagnoses, and reports.

Consultation and Reporting: Upon reviewing the images, radiologists generate detailed reports containing their findings, interpretations, and recommendations. They may also engage in consultations with healthcare providers or specialists as needed.

Communication: The reports and findings are transmitted back to the referring healthcare facility, where they become part of the patient’s medical record. This allows for prompt decision-making and treatment planning by the attending physicians.

how teleradiology works

Quality Control: Teleradiology services often have quality assurance measures in place to ensure accurate and timely interpretations, adhering to industry standards and protocols.

 

Throughout this process, encryption and secure transmission protocols are employed to safeguard patient data and comply with healthcare privacy regulations (such as HIPAA in the United States). The real-time nature of teleradiology facilitates quicker diagnoses, especially in emergency situations, and enables access to specialized expertise irrespective of geographical barriers.

 

Top Teleradiology Company: Vesta is Here for You 24/7/365

Vesta is here to be your supporting partner in radiology, even for subspecialties. We offer fast turnaround for both STAT and Routine studies. Your staff is important–they don’t always work around the clock and shouldn’t have to. With our teleradiology services, you can allow your staff a better work-life balance while we fill in those gaps whether it’s during night hours, weekends, holidays.

 

Sources:

Acr.org
openai.com

 

What You Missed at RSNA 2023

The RSNA annual meeting draws tens of thousands of healthcare professionals in medical imaging, offering a comprehensive platform for unveiling groundbreaking innovations and fostering discussions among industry leaders. This year’s conference just ended, so if you didn’t get to join, we’ll be highlighting some interesting takeaways from this amazing event.

New Technology

Royal Philips introduces the BlueSeal MR Mobile, a groundbreaking mobile MRI system featuring helium-free operations, marking a significant advancement in diagnostic imaging technology. This pioneering device, equipped with the industry’s first fully sealed 1.5T magnet, provides patient-centric MRI services, offering agility and flexibility in placement, especially near hospital entrances for patient convenience. Developed initially for Akumin, the first unit to be showcased at the event, this innovation extends Philips’ BlueSeal magnet technology, having saved over 1.5 million liters of helium since 2018. The helium-free mobile unit expands access to MRI exams sustainably, catering to more patients in diverse locations, addressing resource constraints, and enhancing healthcare delivery, as highlighted by Ruud Zwerink, General Manager Magnetic Resonance at Philips. Notably, the BlueSeal MR Mobile’s reduced helium requirements improve operational efficiency and connect to Philips’ Radiology Operations Command Center (ROCC), enabling real-time remote support for imaging experts, ensuring quality care delivery.

Radpair, a pioneering platform in radiology innovation, unveiled its cutting-edge generative AI-driven technology at the conference. This groundbreaking system, described by Avez Rizvi, Radpair’s CEO, as a revolutionary advancement, promises to reshape radiology reporting and elevate patient care standards. Positioned as the first of its kind, Radpair’s web-based and user-friendly platform utilizes generative AI in clinical settings to automate radiology report generation, streamlining radiologists’ workflow and enhancing efficiency while prioritizing patient care. Vesta Teleradiology is proud to collaborate with Radpair, with Vesta CEO, Vijay Vonguru stating, “This partnership propels us to the forefront of innovation in radiology. The synergy between Radpair’s advanced generative AI technology and Vesta’s robust teleradiology platform and onsite Radiology will redefine the standards of care we provide, ensuring high-quality, swift, and more nuanced radiological interpretations.”

Radpair and Vesta Telereadiology

Addressing the People

Dr. Pedram Keshavarz from UCLA presented findings indicating widespread burnout symptoms among radiologists and trainees. Emotional exhaustion and depersonalization were prevalent, particularly among residents and trainees who exhibited the highest rates of low personal accomplishment. These symptoms are considered warning signs for potential professional dropout or retirement. The study reviewed multiple contributing factors to burnout, including sleep deprivation, heavy workloads, low salaries, and various responsibilities. Analyzing nine studies with over 15,000 participants, the research highlighted different rates of burnout across radiology subspecialties, linking factors like having a partner, child, and lower debt levels to reduced emotional exhaustion and higher personal accomplishment. The presentation emphasized the need for future research to focus on interventions to alleviate burnout symptoms, potentially exploring the impact of remote work and other aspects on radiologists’ well-being. Large cross-sectional studies were suggested to further understand and address burnout progression among radiologists.

 

Sources:

Auntminnie.com
itnonline.com
Phillips.com
Openai.com

 

Winter Influx of Patients: What Hospitals Can Expect This Year

Every year, hospitals experience an influx of patients during winter due to respiratory illnesses, falls, and accidents. However, with the ongoing pandemic, the winter season brings extra challenges for the medical staff.

Preparing ahead is crucial to ensure that hospitals can cope with the surge in the winter season.

What to Expect

The winter season often increases respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia and bronchitis. Hospital admissions for these conditions can increase by up to 25% during winter. Medical staff should expect to see more patients with respiratory illnesses in 2023/2024.

Imaging procedures such as X-rays and CT scans can help to diagnose and monitor these conditions. Therefore, hospitals should ensure enough imaging technicians, equipment, and supplies.

Hospitals can also expect more patients with falls and accidents. Icy roads and pavements can cause slips, trips, and falls, leading to broken bones and head injuries.

slip and fall winter accidents

Imaging procedures such as X-rays and MRI scans can help to diagnose fractures and internal injuries. Therefore, hospitals should ensure that they have enough imaging equipment to diagnose and monitor these injuries.

They should also provide an imaging safety committee to promote safety in the imaging department.

With the ongoing pandemic, hospitals should expect a surge in COVID-19 patients during the winter season. The increase in COVID-19 cases will put additional pressure on hospital resources.

Imaging procedures such as chest X-rays and CT scans can help to diagnose and monitor COVID-19 patients. Therefore, hospitals should ensure enough imaging equipment to diagnose and monitor COVID-19 patients.

They should also have policies and procedures to protect staff and patients from infection.

How to Prepare

The winter season not only brings a surge in patients but also a surge in demand for medical staff. Hospitals should expect medical staff shortages to increase during the winter months due to staff illness, vacation time, and extra medical staff needed to manage the surge.

Therefore, hospitals should consider hiring temporary medical staff during winter to cope with the increased demand. They should also provide ongoing training for new and temporary staff, including imaging technicians.

Vesta Teleradiology to fill in Gaps and Radiologist Shortages

In conclusion, the winter influx of patients can be challenging for hospitals, especially with the ongoing pandemic. Hospitals should prepare to cope with the patient surge and medical staff shortages.

Imaging procedures can help to diagnose and monitor respiratory illnesses, falls and accidents, and COVID-19 patients. Therefore, hospitals should ensure that they have enough imaging equipment, technicians and of course radiologists for interpretations. Vesta Teleradiology provides US Board Certified radiologists who will work with you day and night, 24/7.

They should also have policies and procedures to protect staff and patients from infection. By preparing ahead, hospitals can ensure that they provide the best possible care for their patients during winter.

 

 

RSNA 2023 Annual Meeting Highlights and Special Exhibits

The RSNA Annual Meeting stands as a pivotal event in the realm of radiology, serving as a dynamic nexus where cutting-edge advancements, emerging trends, and transformative innovations converge. This annual gathering not only showcases the latest breakthroughs in medical imaging but also fosters a collaborative environment where radiology professionals from various subspecialties can engage with state-of-the-art technologies, exchange insights, and navigate the intricate landscape of healthcare’s future.

Trending topics for RSNA 2023

This year’s meeting will be held on November 26-30. It will feature diverse trends across radiology subspecialties, with a notable emphasis on AI and photon-counting CT applications. Theranostics and the use of large language models are also gaining popularity. The event will offer non-interpretive sessions focusing on skills development and addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare. The RSNA Annual Meeting Learning Center will provide a comprehensive experience, including the latest research, CME opportunities, and insights for improving DEI and health equity. Attendees can access a quick-reference guide to navigate trending topics and recommended sessions by subspecialty.

Some notable plenary sessions include:

Leading Through Technology: Valuing Artificial and Human Intelligence led by Elizabeth S. Burnside, MD, MPH; The Future of Healthcare Delivery: Considerations for Patients and Providers led by Vin Gupta, MD and Understanding and Revitalizing the Radiology Workforce led by Jocelyn D. Chertoff, MD, MS.

Technical Exhibits

The RSNA 2023 Technical Exhibits promise an immersive experience at the forefront of medical imaging innovation, boasting nearly 700 leading manufacturers, suppliers, and technology developers. The event showcases the latest advancements in AI through the AI Showcase, featuring over 90 companies presenting AI solutions, software demonstrations, and product displays. Attendees can delve into the RSNA AI Theater to explore hot topics in AI, machine learning, and deep learning, with special recognition for winners of AI challenges. The 3D Printing & Mixed Reality Showcase in the North Hall offers networking opportunities in 3D medical printing, augmented reality, and virtual reality.

 

 

Learn more at RSNA.org

Sources:
itnonline.com
rsna.org
openai.com

 

The Future of Medical Imaging: Latest Augmented Reality Advancements

Medical imaging is crucial in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions. These technologies have transformed the medical field from X-rays to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans.

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital data, such as images or sounds, onto real-world objects or locations. In the medical field, AR has become an essential tool in patient examinations, surgery, and therapy.

AR-assisted Surgery

One of the significant benefits of AR technology in medicine is its application in surgical procedures. With AR, surgeons can see 3D images of the patient’s internal organs, tissues, and blood vessels during an operation.

This technology has revolutionized how physicians perform surgeries, offering unparalleled precision, accuracy, and visual assistance. Surgeons can perform surgeries with minimal invasion, thus reducing patient recovery time.

Additionally, AR-assisted surgery can benefit doctors in training as they can learn surgical procedures through virtual reality simulations.

Image-guided Intervention and Therapy

Image-guided intervention and therapy is another area that has experienced significant advancements in AR technology. Medical professionals can use AR to display real-time images of the internal organs during a procedure, allowing for precise navigation and guidance.

For example, using AR technology in radiation therapy enables medical professionals to focus radiation beams precisely on the tumor and spare the surrounding healthy tissue.

Patient Education and Rehabilitation

As medical professionals seek to enhance patient education and rehabilitation, AR technology has proven helpful. Patients can use AR to view and understand their medical conditions better.

For instance, AR can help showcase the effects of a particular treatment plan and provide feedback on the treatment progress. AR can also be used to improve rehabilitation sessions, as patients can receive personalized therapy recommendations that suit their needs.

Medical Education and Training

The applications of AR technology in medicine are not limited to diagnosis and treatment. Medical education and training have also benefited tremendously through AR technology.

Through virtual reality simulations, medical students can explore the human body in 3D and get hands-on experience with various procedures. Additionally, trainees can learn how to use medical equipment through AR simulations without endangering patient’s lives.

vr training session

Remote Patient Monitoring

AR technology has the potential to transform remote patient monitoring. Patients can use AR technology to capture images and videos remotely and send them to medical professionals.

This approach saves time and resources, especially for people living in remote areas, enabling them to receive diagnoses and medical advice promptly.

The advancements in augmented reality technology have revolutionized medical imaging by transforming diagnostics and treatment procedures. AR technology has applications in surgery, image-guided interventions and therapy, patient education, medical education and training, and remote patient monitoring.

With continued research and development, AR technology can potentially transform healthcare significantly. The advancements in AR technology are exciting as they offer the possibility of more accurate, efficient, and cost-effective medical procedures, diagnosis, and treatment, and ultimately, improved patient outcomes.

 

ChatGPT in Radiology: Is it a Pro or Con?

The emergence of ChatGPT in the medical field, particularly in radiology, has generated a mix of excitement and concern about its role. But is it accurate enough to put into use? Can we trust artificial intelligence (AI) with the health of our patients?

How Could ChatGPT be Used?

An article in Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging discusses various ways in which radiologists can leverage ChatGPT. It highlights applications for clinical radiologists, such as implementing ChatGPT as a chatbot for patient inquiries, supporting clinical decision-making with information and analysis assistance, and enhancing patient communication and follow-up care by simplifying radiology reports and crafting tailored recommendations. Academic radiologists can benefit from ChatGPT by receiving suggestions for impactful research article titles, assistance with structuring and formatting academic papers, and help in formatting citations for bibliographies. The article emphasizes that the best use of ChatGPT in radiology depends on individual needs and goals, potentially paving the way for a more intelligent future in the field.  It notes that while ChatGPT offers valuable support, it’s crucial to fact-check its answers and review its output to ensure accuracy and relevance.

What Radiologists Have to Say

In RSNA’s article, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Using ChatGPT, various radiologists give their opinions on the use of this AI. Dr. Som Biswas, who published an article in Radiology entirely written by ChatGPT, believes that its potential benefits in reducing the workload and improving efficiency in radiology outweigh its limitations, which could be especially valuable in addressing the growing demand for medical imaging and reports in the face of a radiologist shortage.

Yiqiu Shen, MS, a researcher at New York University’s Center for Data Science, remarked, “In general, it’s ok to use ChatGPT as a language aid or to provide a template, but it’s dangerous to rely on ChatGPT to make a clinical decision.”

 

Urologic Imaging and AI: A Study

A study published in Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology compared the performance of OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google Bard in suggesting appropriate urologic imaging methods based on American College of Radiology (ACR) criteria. Both chatbots demonstrated an appropriate imaging modality rate of over 60%, with no significant difference between them in the proportion of correct imaging modality selected. However, the researchers noted that both chatbots lacked consistent accuracy and further development is needed for clinical implementation. The study found that while the chatbots were not entirely consistent in their responses, they hold promise in assisting healthcare providers in determining the best imaging modality, potentially improving clinical workflows in the future. ChatGPT provided shorter responses and had a slightly longer response time compared to Bard, which was faster but struggled with determining appropriate imaging modalities in a few scenarios.

 

Vesta: A Tech-Forward Company

Vesta Teleradiology looks forward to a future integrating AI with medicine. Click here to read more about Vesta Teleradiology Partners with MIT for AI Research

 

Sources:

radiologybusiness.com
rsna.org
Auntminnie.com
openai.com

Healthcare Strikes Can Burden Hospitals this Fall

Around 75,000 healthcare workers, including radiology professionals, were on strike at Kaiser Permanente across five states and Washington, D.C. This strike is considered one of the largest in U.S. healthcare history. Unions had been negotiating since April and overwhelmingly voted to authorize the strike if no resolution was reached by September 30. The strike affected regions in California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. On October 7, the strike ended without a resolution after three days per federal rules.

Why Do Healthcare Strikes Like This Happen?

The Kaiser Permanente workers were on strike due to pay as well as for ensuring increases in staffing levels and protections against job outsourcing. Just a week ago, 600 registered nurses and medical support staff from St. Francis Medical Center issued a 10-day strike notice warning of walking off the job October 9 through October 13 if the hospital fails to deliver a contract for safe staffing levels. As of today, healthcare workers from St. Francis Medical Center and three other Southern California medical facilities initiated a five-day strike to protest what they perceive as unfair labor conditions and unsafe patient care practices. The strike involves nurses and other medical staff at St. Francis, Centinela Hospital Medical Center, Garden Grove Hospital Medical Center, and Encino Hospital Medical Center, all of which are under Prime Healthcare’s management. The unions representing approximately 1,800 workers, UNAC/UHCP and SEIU-UHWH, argue that chronic understaffing has led to hazardous patient care situations, exacerbated by layoffs resulting from Prime Healthcare’s acquisition of St. Francis during the pandemic.

labor strike

Other reasons healthcare strikes occur:

Workplace Safety: Workers may strike when they feel that their safety is compromised due to inadequate safety protocols, insufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), or exposure to hazardous conditions, such as infectious diseases.

Contract Disputes: Labor unions representing healthcare workers negotiate employment contracts with healthcare facilities. If these negotiations fail to address the concerns of workers, strikes may occur.

Patient Care: Healthcare workers are often deeply committed to patient well-being. Strikes may result from concerns that cost-cutting measures or management decisions compromise patient care quality.

Workload and Burnout: Heavy workloads, excessive overtime, and insufficient breaks contribute to burnout among healthcare workers. Strikes can be a way to address these issues and improve work-life balance.

staffing and labor shortage

 

Retirement and Pension Plans: Disagreements over retirement benefits and pension plans can lead to labor disputes among healthcare workers, particularly as they plan for their future financial security.

Lack of Resources: Inadequate resources, including medical supplies, equipment, and technology, can hinder healthcare workers’ ability to provide quality care. Strikes may aim to secure better resources.

Job Security: Concerns about job security may arise due to outsourcing, facility closures, or layoffs. Healthcare workers may strike to protect their employment.

Union Organizing Rights: Workers may go on strike to assert their rights to form or join labor unions, address unfair labor practices, or challenge anti-union policies and actions by employers.

 

It’s important to note that healthcare worker strikes can have significant implications for patient care and public health. Patient care cannot be compromised so if your hospital or healthcare center is in immediate need of radiologists to fill any shortages or gaps, please reach out to Vesta Teleradiology today.

 

Sources:

Radiologybusiness.com
npr.org
Medscape.com
healthcaredive.com
abc7.com
Openai.com

 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Kicks Off Now: The Latest in Breast Cancer Studies

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when individuals and organizations around the world unite to raise awareness about one of the most prevalent and potentially life-threatening diseases affecting women and, in some cases, men. Throughout this month, campaigns, events, and educational initiatives aim to promote early detection, support those impacted by breast cancer, and advance research efforts. In this article, we will delve into the latest news and developments in the field of breast cancer awareness and research, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat this disease and improve the lives of those affected by it.

 

Migraine and Breast Cancer: Is There a Link?

Migraine, a debilitating neurological disorder affecting 14-15% of the global population, has been associated with various health risks, including stroke, high blood pressure, epilepsy, tinnitus, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Recent research has explored a potential link between migraines and breast cancer, both influenced by estrogen levels. While some studies suggest a higher breast cancer risk in individuals with migraines, others indicate the opposite or mixed results.

woman with a migraine

A study by researchers from the Cancer Center at West China Hospital of Sichuan University in China delved into this connection, utilizing genetic data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Their Mendelian randomization analysis revealed that women with any type of migraine face an increased risk of overall breast cancer and estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer. Notably, women experiencing migraine headaches without aura showed a heightened risk of ER-negative breast cancer, with suggestive associations for overall breast cancer risk.

However, medical experts caution that this study is retrospective and associative, requiring replication in diverse populations to establish a causal relationship. The degree of increased risk is relatively small compared to other genetic factors influencing breast cancer risk. Nevertheless, this research opens the door to future investigations into the complex interplay between migraines, genetics, and breast cancer, shedding light on potential contributors to this disease.

 

Are Older Women At Risk for Overdiagnosis?

A study involving 54,635 women aged 70 and older found that continuing breast cancer screening after age 70 carries a significant risk of overdiagnosis, which is the detection and treatment of cancers that would not have caused harm in a person’s lifetime. Over 80% of women aged 70-84 and over 60% of women aged 85 and older continued screening. The study showed that overdiagnosis estimates ranged from 31% of breast cancer cases in the 70-74 age group to 54% in the 85 and older group. However, there was no statistically significant reduction in breast cancer-specific death associated with screening in any age group. Overdiagnosis was primarily driven by detecting in situ and localized invasive breast cancer, not advanced cases. The study emphasizes the importance of considering patient preferences, risk tolerance, comfort with uncertainty, and willingness to undergo treatment when making screening decisions for older women. The study’s limitations include the potential misclassification of diagnostic mammograms as screening and the inability to adjust for certain breast cancer risk factors.

Vesta Teleradiology: Mammogram Interpretations, Day and Night

In conclusion, as healthcare practices navigate the intricacies of mammogram interpretations, our company is here to provide unwavering support. We understand the importance of accurate diagnoses in breast health, which is why our dedicated team is available day and night, even during holidays, to assist healthcare professionals. Your commitment to patient care is our priority, and we’re here to ensure that you have the expertise and assistance you need for precise mammogram interpretations.

 

Are Interruptions Impacting Radiologists’ Work?

In the bustling environment of a modern hospital, where urgency is the norm and every moment counts, the radiology department serves as a critical hub of diagnostic decision-making. Radiologists, entrusted with the vital task of interpreting medical images, navigate a constant stream of interruptions that disrupt their focused analysis. These interruptions, though often necessary for patient care, can pose a significant challenge, potentially impeding the accuracy and efficiency of radiological diagnoses with potentially detrimental consequences for patient outcomes.

How Often are Radiologists Interrupted?

A recent study at Nationwide Children’s Hospital investigated interruptions’ impact on radiologists’ efficiency and patient care in their pediatric radiology department. Thirteen pediatric radiologists were observed for 61 hours, revealing common interruptions that disrupted workflows and slowed patient care. Interruptions fell into three categories: time spent interpreting studies, active interruptions initiated by radiologists, and passive interruptions from external sources. Radiologists spent 52% of their time interpreting studies, 29% on active interruptions, and 18% on passive interruptions.

rad tech and radiologist

Interruptions were most frequent during mid-morning and mid-afternoon, often due to hospital-wide consultations. Half of non-interpretive time involved in-person consultations, with 16% being phone calls, mainly incoming and short in duration.

The study found that radiologists spent nearly as much time on interruptions as on interpreting studies, negatively impacting efficiency and report interpretation times. While recognizing communication’s importance in radiology, the study suggests that strategic interventions can enhance efficiency.

To address the interruption issue, the institution implemented changes in reading room environments, increased the use of reading room assistants, introduced a new PACS system, standardized protocols, and optimized trainee schedules. Although the impact of these interventions wasn’t quantitatively assessed, they reportedly improved workflow and reduced interruptions. Further research is needed to examine the total cost of interruptions and the cost-effectiveness of higher resource interventions.

Interruptions from Teams

Another study by a research team from Georgetown University School of Medicine suggests that asynchronous forms of communication, such as Microsoft Teams, are less disruptive to radiologists compared to phone calls or in-person visits. Researchers from Georgetown University School of Medicine observed 19 radiologists and found that interruptions caused by Teams messages were shorter and less severe. These interruptions were less likely to occur during critical cases, reducing concentration impairment during image reviews. The shift to asynchronous communication methods during the COVID-19 pandemic allowed radiologists more control over the timing of interruptions. The study indicates a trend toward the continued use of asynchronous communication in radiology due to its reduced disruption.

teleradiologist
How do meetings affect radiologists’ duties?

Partnering with Vesta Teleradiology

Our team of dedicated US Board Certified radiologists is deeply committed to providing precise and reliable interpretations of your medical facility’s diagnostic imaging scans. We understand the critical role that accurate diagnoses play in patient care and treatment planning. Our commitment to your facility’s needs extends beyond regular hours, as we stand ready to offer 24/7 support, ensuring that you have access to our expertise whenever it’s required, day or night. Your facility’s success in providing top-notch healthcare services is our utmost priority, and we are here to support you at every step of the way, around the clock.

 

Sources:

Healthimaging.com
sciencedirect.com
auntminnie.com
openai.com

Non-Physician Providers Increasingly Used in Imaging Interpretations

The role of non-physician practitioners (NPPs) in healthcare, including radiology, is growing due to physician shortages. A study published in Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology examines the increasing trend of NPPs taking on imaging interpretation responsibilities. The study analyzed data from over 3 million imaging claims between 2016 and 2020 and found that 3% were attributed to NPPs, with the highest rates in rural areas. In metropolitan and micropolitan areas, NPP interpretations increased significantly during this period, particularly in states with less restrictive scope-of-practice policies. NPPs include those Nurse Practitioners and Physicians Assistants.

NPP-billed interpretation claims increased from 2.6% in 2016 to 3.3% in 2020, specifically, marking a 26.9% growth during this period. Most NPP interpretations were for radiography/fluoroscopy (53.3%) or ultrasound (26.1%).

The study also examined how state-level regulations influenced NPP practice authority and found that states with more moderate scope of practice laws saw larger increases in NPP interpretation rates, both in metropolitan and micropolitan areas.

A surprising finding was the extent of NPP involvement in interpreting advanced imaging studies, particularly CT and MRI, which made up 21% of all NPP-interpreted imaging. This raised concerns, given NPPs’ limited training in imaging.

MRI

The study highlights the need for further research into NPP involvement in radiology services, driven in part by shortages of physician specialists. Researchers should also explore NPPs’ roles in supervising diagnostic imaging tests involving contrast administration, in accordance with state regulations and Medicare rules.

When You’re Short-Staffed, Partner with Vesta Teleradiology

Partnering with our teleradiology company offers a robust solution to reduce reliance on non-physician practitioners (NPPs) for imaging interpretations. We provide access to a team of board-certified radiologists available around the clock, ensuring timely and accurate interpretations of diagnostic imaging studies. By collaborating with us, healthcare providers can enhance the quality of radiological care, improve patient outcomes, and address the challenges posed by physician shortages, all while maintaining a high standard of expertise in radiology. Your patients deserve the best care, and our partnership can help you achieve that goal. Contact us to learn more.

Vesta Teleradiology

 

Sources:
Healthimaging.com
sciencedirect.com
jdsupra.com
openai.com