A Tale of Two Studies: Are Doctors Fulfilling too Many Imaging Requests?

A recent qualitative study aimed to investigate the factors influencing general practitioners’ (GPs) decisions to fulfill patient requests for imaging studies during clinical consultations. Ten GPs from private medical centers in Northwest Sydney were interviewed, and their perspectives were analyzed through content analysis. On the other side of the spectrum, we explore an American study that reveals the importance of encouraging more people to undergo screenings.

Patient Imaging Requests

The study revealed six key themes that emerged from the interviews regarding GPs fulfilling patient imaging requests:

Patient Expectations: Patients’ desires and expectations played a significant role in GPs’ decisions to fulfill imaging requests. Some patients expected certain tests due to their health concerns or beliefs.

‘Therapeutic Scans’: GPs recognized that some patients viewed imaging scans as a form of reassurance or therapeutic action. This influenced GPs to fulfill requests to alleviate patient anxiety.

“I find X-rays have become a therapeutic requirement, [and] that their [patients’] problem often dissipates once the request is given. (Female, 40)”

‘Impressive Labels’: The use of serious-sounding terms in imaging reports contributed to patients’ perception of the severity of their condition. This, in turn, led to increased requests for such scans.

Entitlement: Some patients exhibited an attitude of entitlement, expecting imaging scans without sufficient medical justification. GPs were more likely to decline such requests, especially during initial visits.

Defensive Medicine: GPs expressed concerns about potential legal repercussions if they refused imaging requests. Fear of litigation influenced GPs to fulfill requests to avoid legal issues.

‘New Patients’: GPs were cautious about fulfilling imaging requests from new patients, as they needed time to establish trust and assess the necessity of the requested scans.

The study concluded that GPs faced challenges in balancing their role as gatekeepers of imaging with patient expectations. Clear guidelines, patient education, and GP training were suggested as potential strategies to manage patient expectations and provide appropriate care. The study sheds light on the complexities of patient-GP interactions regarding imaging requests and highlights the need for evidence-based strategies to navigate these challenges. The study was conducted within the Australian Medicare system, where medical imaging is relatively accessible and affordable, and the findings contribute to understanding the dynamics of patient-GP interactions in this context.

Cancer Screenings Saves Millions of Years of Life

Meanwhile an American study conducted by teams from the University of Chicago, University of Michigan, and study sponsor Grail LLC estimates that Americans have gained an additional 12 million years of life due to preventive cancer screenings over the past 25 years, leading to an economic impact of around $6.5 trillion. These screenings, targeting early signs of breast, colon, cervical, and lung cancers among high-risk adults, emphasize the importance of encouraging more individuals to undergo recommended cancer checks and exploring novel screening methods. The study suggests that if all eligible individuals received current screening for these cancers, it could save an extra 3.3 million life-years and add $1.7 trillion in economic impact.

mammograms

 

The research utilized a mathematical model to assess the impact of cancer screenings endorsed by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). This federally authorized panel evaluates evidence for preventive medical services and provides recommendations using letter grades. Since 2010, screenings with “A” or “B” grades have been covered by most insurances without patient costs under the Affordable Care Act.

Although screenings for breast, colorectal, cervical, and lung cancers have saved millions of life-years, their full potential remains untapped. The majority of life-years saved and economic impact come from cervical cancer screening due to its early and consistent screening intervals for individuals aged 18-65. However, the study acknowledges that the availability of the HPV vaccine since 2006 could affect the future value of cervical cancer screening.

While there are validated screening tests lacking for many cancer types, decreased death rates from cancers with available screenings have contributed to the overall reduction in U.S. cancer deaths. To establish more broadly validated cancer screenings, further research is needed, potentially evaluated by the USPSTF. Novel screening tools like blood tests for multiple cancer types are in development, but AI-based tests have yet to undergo review by relevant bodies for efficacy and recommendations.

 

Sources:
onlinelibrary.wiley.com
michiganmedicine.org
Openai.com

Growth in Demand for Imaging Procedures Will Increase Need for Teleradiology

The healthcare market is experiencing a shift towards outpatient care, driven by reimbursement changes, pandemic effects, and patient preferences, particularly prominent in the U.S. Providers are diversifying into sub-specializations like neurology and oncology, raising the demand for advanced imaging like MRI and CT. This trend has led to increased utilization of outpatient imaging and teleradiology services.

By the NuMbers

Diagnostic imaging is becoming increasingly crucial in healthcare, with the market projected to reach $31.9bn in 2023 and grow at a 4.8% CAGR to $45.8bn in 2030. The rise is driven by chronic diseases, an aging population, and post-Covid-19 demand recovery. To meet this demand, companies are focusing on advanced and accessible technologies, such as handheld ultrasounds. About 1,949 imaging devices are in development, with 112 expected to gain approval in 2023.

imaging device

According to Fortune Business Insights, in 2022, the computed tomography (CT) segment held the largest market share due to a rise in CT scan procedures and higher average pricing. For instance, OECD data for 2021 showed 84.5 million CT scan procedures in the U.S., up by 15.8% from the previous year. The growing geriatric population has also contributed to increased demand for CT scans.

Key Players

Key players include GE Healthcare, Philips, Siemens Healthineers, and more. Challenges include high equipment costs and a shortage of skilled personnel, impacting accessibility and patient care quality. Opportunities arise from the growing demand for imaging services, especially for chronic diseases, and the development of new modalities like 3D mammography and MRI-guided focused ultrasound. Emerging economies like India, China, and Brazil are pivotal, driven by rising chronic diseases. Major players like Siemens Healthineers are expanding in these markets. Additionally, teaching hospitals are increasing demand for advanced imaging methods to enhance patient care.

Your Dedicated Radiology Partner: Vesta

Partnering with Vesta as your radiology partner ensures access to accurate and timely imaging interpretations and readings for subspecialties. Whether you are an outpatient imaging center or traditional hospital, our collaboration offers a seamless and efficient experience. Trust us to be your reliable radiology partner, empowering you with the insights and tools needed for improved healthcare outcomes.

 

radiology peer reviewSources:

Itnonline.com
Medicaldevices-network.com
fortunebusinessinsights.com
openai.com

 

Healthcare Burnout: Update for 2023

Burnout in the medical setting refers to a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion experienced by healthcare professionals. It arises from chronic and excessive stress caused by demanding work environments, long hours, high patient loads, and the emotional toll of dealing with patient suffering. Symptoms of burnout include feelings of cynicism, detachment from work, reduced sense of accomplishment, and a decline in professional performance. Burnout not only impacts the well-being of medical practitioners but can also compromise patient care and safety. It also impacts staffing at all levels in healthcare, from nurses to executives.

What’s Going on Now?

Healthcare employees nationwide have initiated strikes in their efforts to secure better pay and improved staffing conditions in their employment agreements. Additionally, resident physicians are becoming increasingly engaged in labor organizing.

burnt out
A doctor experiences burnout

According to experts, these labor trends will present ongoing challenges to health systems as facilities strive to return to pre-pandemic operations while trying to control the labor costs that escalated last year. The sector is expected to face persistent staffing shortages, particularly among nurses, due to widespread burnout and increased turnover. As a result, healthcare facilities continue to rely on expensive contract labor to fill the gaps in their workforce, even as the rates of severe COVID-19 hospitalizations decline.

Burnout in Radiologists

The “Medscape Physician Burnout & Depression Report 2023: ‘I Cry and No One Cares'” reported that 54 percent of radiologists surveyed felt burned out. Further, just 61% of radiologists said they’re happy or very happy away from work.

Recent data published in the European Journal of Radiology presents the experiences of breast radiologists with burnout during various stages of the COVID pandemic. Surprisingly, the study reveals that, at the height of COVID, many radiologists reported improvements in five out of six common stressors, such as work pace, work-life balance, caregiving responsibilities, and financial strain. However, this relief was short-lived, as patient capacity increased again, leading to a surge in workload, backlogs of studies, and a slight increase in burnout levels compared to before the pandemic.

 

Addressing Staffing Shortages and Burnout

Addressing burnout is crucial to maintain a healthy healthcare workforce and ensure the delivery of high-quality medical services. Strategies like promoting work-life balance, providing support and resources for stress management, and fostering a positive and supportive work culture are essential to mitigate and prevent burnout in the medical field.

Vesta Teleradiology is your reliable solution for all your healthcare facility’s radiology requirements, whether you require full-time support or coverage during nights and weekends. With over 16 years of dedicated service to diagnostic imaging centers, physician’s offices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, we are here to assist you. Get in touch with us today for a quick quote at 1-877-55-VESTA.

teleradiology-service
Vesta is a highly rated teleradiology service provider.

Sources:

Healthcaredive.com
Radiologybusiness.com
Beckershospitalreview.com
Healthimaging.com
Openai.com

 

Teleradiology FAQ: How Are Teleradiology Reports Delivered?

A healthcare facility – hospital, private practice, imaging center – may choose to utilize the services of a teleradiology company to enhance their radiology capabilities and streamline their diagnostic imaging processes. Teleradiology services offers numerous advantages, such as increased access to specialized radiologists, expedited turnaround times, reduced waiting time for patients, and improved patient care. By partnering with a reputable teleradiology company, healthcare facilities can leverage advanced technology, secure data transmission, and a network of skilled radiologists to obtain accurate and timely radiology preliminary and final interpretations. This collaboration allows healthcare providers to optimize their resources, extend their coverage, and ultimately deliver high-quality diagnostic imaging services to their patients, regardless of time or location.

Teleradiology Reports Delivery

Before engaging with an outsourced radiology company, you may wonder how reports are delivered. Teleradiology specialists deliver their reports through secure electronic means, utilizing advanced technology and secure communication platforms.

telerad

When you partner with Vesta, a Gateway application is installed remotely to allow your systems direct access to our PACS. Once linked, your technicians send exams straight from your machine to our PACS. Vesta account specialists assign it to the proper physician who read and dictate the report, it’s uploaded to your branded template where it’s easily accessible for your facility to access and download!

These customized reports can also be distributed electronically, and any critical findings are immediately shared with the facility via phone, email, or text. We also facilitate callbacks between the physician and radiologist and provide an unlimited amount of customized report templates with your facility’s information and logo. It’s a seamless experience which allows you to focus on what matters most, the patient experience.

Safety and Security: HIPAA

Teleradiology companies like Vesta prioritize the security and confidentiality of patient data throughout the entire process. They employ strict data encryption, comply with privacy regulations (such as HIPAA in the United States), and implement robust security measures to protect patient information during transmission and storage.

hipaa compliance
Look to Vesta for secure and compliant reports

Looking to outsource your radiology interpretations? Please reach out to Vesta to learn more. Vesta Teleradiology can accommodate any type of volume, large, medium and small.

Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://openai.com

The Role of a Pediatric Radiologist

In 2011, a large study examined the use of x-rays and other radiation imaging on children—they estimated that the average child would get more than seven radiation scans by the age of 18. No doubt, then, that the role of a pediatric radiologist is important in accurately diagnosing and treating diseases and conditions in children. Their specialized knowledge, expertise in radiation safety, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals contribute to the well-being and optimal care of pediatric patients. It’s estimated that only 3% of all radiologists in the US are pediatric radiologists, making this a small subspeciality. In this article, we will review the role and responsibilities of a pediatric radiologist.

A pediatric radiologist is a specialized medical doctor who focuses on using medical imaging techniques to diagnose and treat diseases and conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. They have expertise in interpreting and analyzing imaging studies specifically related to pediatric patients.

The role of a pediatric radiologist involves the following:

 

Interpreting Imaging Studies: Pediatric radiologists review and interpret various imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and nuclear medicine scans. They analyze the images to identify abnormalities or signs of disease. If you choose to work with Vesta Teleradiology, we have US board certified radiologists that handle subspecialty preliminary and final interpretations in pediatric imaging.

brain scans

Diagnosing Diseases and Conditions: By studying the imaging results, pediatric radiologists can diagnose a wide range of diseases and conditions that affect children. This can include congenital anomalies, infections, tumors, fractures, organ abnormalities, and other medical conditions.

Minimizing Radiation Exposure: Pediatric radiologists are particularly mindful of the potential risks associated with radiation exposure in children. They employ techniques and protocols that minimize the amount of radiation used during imaging procedures, ensuring the safety of young patients while still obtaining the necessary diagnostic information. For example, when appropriate, pediatric radiologists may use lead shields or aprons to protect sensitive areas of a child’s body that are not being imaged. This helps minimize unnecessary radiation exposure to healthy tissues. They also undergo specialized training in pediatric radiology, which includes radiation safety and dose optimization techniques.

Guiding Treatment Decisions: Pediatric radiologists collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, surgeons, and oncologists, to help guide treatment decisions. The imaging findings they provide play a crucial role in determining the most appropriate course of treatment.

Performing Image-Guided Procedures: In addition to interpreting images, pediatric radiologists may also perform image-guided procedures. These procedures can include biopsies, drainages, and minimally invasive interventions. They use imaging technology to guide their instruments and ensure precise placement.

Collaboration and Consultation: Pediatric radiologists work closely with other healthcare professionals, including referring physicians, to discuss imaging findings, provide recommendations, and answer any questions. They may also consult with pediatric subspecialists to provide further expertise in specific areas of pediatric radiology.

Overall, the role of a pediatric radiologist is vital in the accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of medical conditions affecting children. Their specialized knowledge and skills in pediatric imaging contribute to the well-being and treatment outcomes of young patients.

 

Sources:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16357371/

OpenAi.com

https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/average-child-may-get-7-radiation-scans-by-age-18/

The Top 2023 Imaging and Healthcare Conferences In the United States

As a healthcare professional, events like conferences serve as opportunities to learn and grow professionally while expanding our network.

If you want to achieve new insights and techniques in imaging and healthcare, 2023 Imaging and Healthcare Conferences are among the best opportunities. Here are the top conferences in the United States.

RSNA (Radiological Society of North America) 2023

The Radiological Society of North America is one of the largest conferences globally, focusing on radiology and imaging. The conference covers everything from basic science to emerging technologies and features various sessions and workshops covering all field aspects.

RSNA 2023 will occur in Chicago, Illinois, from November 27 to December 1, 2023.

SIIM Conference 2023

The Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM) conference is a leading event where experts in fields such as radiology, information technology, and engineering come to share their knowledge on imaging informatics.

The meeting takes place from June 29-July 2, 2023, in the City by the Bay, San Francisco. The SIIM conference offers CME opportunities for attendees to be professionally accredited, making it one of the world’s most significant events in imaging informatics.

 

ACR

The American College of Radiology (ACR) Annual Meeting is a premier event for radiology professionals to learn more about the newest advancements in radiology informatics and medical imaging.

In 2023, ACR plans its conference on May 7th-11th in Washington, DC.

 

AI in Healthcare Summit 2023

This summit brings together professionals in artificial intelligence (AI) and healthcare. It takes place from September 12-14, 2023, in Boston.

The AI in Healthcare Summit aims to bring the world’s brightest minds to discuss ideas on developing AI technology in healthcare imaging. Attendees will enjoy learning from cross-industry thought leaders, researchers, and technology innovators.

CME (Continuing Medical Education) Conferences

Continuing education is essential for professionals in the healthcare industry. CME conferences are offered throughout the year, allowing attendees opportunities for advancement.

Organizations such as the American Medical Association (AMA), the American College of Radiology (ACR), and the Radiological Society of North America offer these conferences.

Attending these imaging and healthcare conferences will allow you to gain experience and interaction with industry professionals and keep abreast of the latest technology and groundbreaking research.

Plan to attend any of these 2023 conferences to improve your imaging and healthcare skills and knowledge and keep yourself updated and engaged with peers.

New Studies in Ultrasound – An Exciting Frontier in Medical Research

Medical science makes incredible strides every year, finding new ways to heal the sick and injured. One of the most exciting of these new frontiers is ultrasound technology.

With its ability to safely and painlessly penetrate the human body, scientists and doctors are discovering new possibilities in diagnosing and treating conditions that previously required more invasive procedures.

Ultrasound in Cancer Treatment

In cancer treatment, chemotherapy often comes with various unpleasant side effects. But new research has shown that ultrasound technology can enhance chemotherapy effectiveness, sometimes even reducing the dosage of the drugs required.

Ultrasound can also help increase the uptake of cancer drugs into tumors, making their delivery more targeted and efficient.

Ultrasound and Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most heartbreaking conditions facing our aging population, and while there is no cure for it, there is hope for better treatment.

Alzheimer's

Recent research has discovered the possibility of using ultrasound to break up the plaques that form in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, reducing the inflammation and damage that cause the disease. Research in this field is still in its early stages, but the possibility of a breakthrough treatment in the years to come is an exciting prospect.

 

Ultrasound Diagnostics

Of course, one of the primary uses of ultrasound in medicine is as a diagnostic tool. However, new studies are refining and expanding the possibilities of what ultrasound can detect.

 

For example, technicians now use ultrasound to locate and diagnose skin cancers and traditional mammography for breast cancer screening. Ultrasound also offers a non-invasive way to examine the heart and blood vessels in incredible detail, giving doctors a better understanding of the mechanisms of cardiovascular disease.

 

Ultrasound and Pain Management

In addition to being an incredible diagnostic tool, patients can use ultrasound to manage pain.

 

Ultrasound-guided nerve block injections can relieve patients suffering from chronic pain without the side effects of prolonged medication use. Studies are ongoing to refine this technique and expand its benefits beyond chronic pain.

pain

Other Applications of Ultrasound

The research and innovation happening in ultrasound are constantly expanding their possibilities.

For example, researchers are exploring ultrasound technology to treat kidney stones, sometimes allowing for less invasive procedures than traditional surgery.

They are also investigating ultrasound for use in regenerative medicine and even to monitor blood glucose levels in diabetic patients non-invasively.

The possibilities of ultrasound technology seem almost limitless, with new studies constantly uncovering ways to use this powerful tool for medical treatment and research.

From cancer treatment to pain management, diagnostics to disease prevention, ultrasound is a field that promises to revolutionize the face of medicine in the years to come. We can only look forward with enthusiasm and hope for what discoveries may come on this exciting frontier.

 

Teleradiology in Conjunction with Ultrasound

 

When you think about the role a teleradiology company like Vesta plays with healthcare providers, you might envision that the radiologists deal only with x-rays and MRI scans. We also work closely with hospitals for ultrasound readings, too. If you’re seeking an extra hand for preliminary and final ultrasound interpretations, please reach out to us today. We can handle any volume, large or small.

 

Reduced Radiation Exposure in Imaging

Medical imaging is a powerful tool for diagnosing and treating medical conditions; however, it can also expose patients to excess radiation levels. Fortunately, recent technological advancements have resulted in the development of new ways to reduce radiation exposure during imaging.

Here are a few ways these advancements are helping patients receive the care they need while reducing their radiation exposure.

New Guidelines

Clinicians have always used guidelines for the use of CT scans. Still, they recently developed new guidelines for the benefit of CT scans on the head, neck, chest, and abdomen/pelvis areas of the body–especially in pediatric practice.

x-ray safety for kids
New guidelines for CT scans

 

Clinicians can reduce or eliminate the need for CT scans if the child is awake and alert, if the blood work is normal, and if the patient is not experiencing abdominal pain.

A study of 146 children not exposed to the excess CT scan radiation using the new guidelines showed no clinically significant missed injuries.

Smart Software

One of the most significant advancements in this area is using smart software to reduce radiation dose in computerized tomography (CT) scans. This software analyzes patient size, age, and other factors to determine the dosage necessary for an accurate scan that minimizes radiation exposure. In some cases, reducing radiation doses by up to 90 percent has been possible without any decrease in diagnostic accuracy.

 

Lower Radiation Levels in the New CT Machines

In addition to using innovative software to reduce doses, researchers are also looking at new technologies, such as low-dose CT machines, that can achieve similar results without any additional processing needed.

 

Technicians have designed these machines with unique components that limit X-ray emissions while still providing high-quality imaging. As a result, patients can receive the same level of care without worrying about unnecessary radiation exposure.

 

Reducing Radiation Exposure with Ultrasound

Finally, reducing radiation exposure through ultrasound technology is more progressive. For clinicians using sound waves instead of X-rays or other forms of energy, ultrasound technology can provide doctors with highly detailed imaging with no risk of exposing patients to dangerous radiation levels.

Ultrasound is an ideal option for pregnant women and children who may be more sensitive to the effects of radiation than adults.

vesta teleradiology for women's wellness centers
An ultrasound tech consults a patient

Recent advancements have made it easier for medical professionals to provide high-quality care while minimizing their patients’ exposure to harmful radiation.

With the medical profession redefining the guidelines, using low-dose scans, better x-ray machinery, and more ultrasounds, many options are now available for reducing radiation exposures during imaging procedures—all without sacrificing diagnostic accuracy or quality care.

That’s great news for anyone who needs an imaging scan but wants to ensure they’re taking steps to protect their health and safety!

 

Diagnostic Imaging Trends: Point of Care Ultrasound – POCUS

Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) is revolutionizing the healthcare industry and changing how doctors prescribe treatment for patients. POCUS is a diagnostic tool that utilizes ultrasound imaging to diagnose, monitor, and guide treatments for medical conditions.

 

This technology has been around for decades but is presently utilized more broadly throughout the healthcare system. Let’s take a closer look at POCUS and how it transforms patient care.

 

What Is Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS)?

Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is an ultrasound-based diagnostic tool used in clinical settings that uses sound waves to create images allowing doctors to see inside the body without having to do surgery or other invasive procedures.

 

POCUS can detect various medical conditions, such as heart defects, abdominal diseases, vascular diseases, musculoskeletal problems, and gynecological issues. POCUS can also be used in emergency settings to assess a patient’s condition quickly and determine if further intervention or testing is needed.

 

How Is Point of Care Ultrasound Transforming Healthcare?

One benefit of POCUS is its cost-effectiveness compared with other imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, and POCUS does not require expensive equipment as those tests do.

 

POCUS
Point of care ultrasound

 

Additionally, it can be done quickly and easily at the point of care, which reduces wait times for patients and increases accuracy in diagnosis, as well as reduces unnecessary treatments or hospital admissions. Furthermore, since it does not use radiation as other imaging tests do, there are no additional health risks associated with this technology, making it safer overall for patients.

 

Another advantage of POCUS is its ability to provide real-time data about a patient’s condition, which helps doctors make more informed decisions about treatment plans for their patients.

 

Additionally, because POCUS used in most circumstances does not require special training or expensive equipment, these systems are becoming increasingly available in low-resource areas where access to traditional diagnostic imaging may be limited. This benefit means more people have access to high-quality healthcare regardless of where they live or available resources.

 

The Gates Foundation recently provided financing to bring 1,000 handheld ultrasound devices to Africa. When low to mid-income nations can improve the accuracy of an efficient diagnosis–local doctors can save more lives.

 

Since 2012, however, emergency medicine program accreditation requires competency in POCUS. Competency assessment in this field includes demonstrations of technical skill and how it relates to the specific clinical practice.

 

Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) offers numerous benefits over traditional imaging tests. Its cost-effectiveness allows physicians to provide accurate diagnoses without breaking the bank. In contrast, its portability allows it to reach underserved populations who may not otherwise have access to quality healthcare services.

 

With further advances in technology coming soon, we could see even more widespread use of this powerful diagnostic tool across all areas of medicine in the near future.

 

Vesta Teleradiology: At the Forefront of Medical Technology

 

Vesta believes it is crucial to stay on top of technological trends that can benefit our hospital and healthcare facility partners. Vesta is always at the forefront of tech advances in order to help bring more efficiency and accuracy to imaging and radiological interpretations. For more information about Vesta’s teleradiology services, please contact us today.

 

How is Technology Helping with the Healthcare Labor Shortage?

The COVID-19 pandemic may seem never ending. While the exposure and infection numbers may be shrinking, the long-lasting effects of this illness are revealing themselves. One of the biggest and most concerning shortages is the labor shortage.

Of course, labor shortage can be vague. What industries are seeing these shortages, and how do those shortages affect customers? Many industries are seeing labor shortages, but one of the most concerning is the healthcare labor shortage.

staffing and labor shortage
Burnout has led many to quit their healthcare jobs

The Healthcare Labor Shortage

The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be tough on several fronts, especially for the first responders providing care and assistance to those suffering. Doctors and nurses were on the front lines treating patients, finding answers, and working long hours. Many healthcare workers were forced out for different physical and mental reasons like burnout. The pressures were so great that nearly 1.5 million healthcare workers left the profession in the first two months of the pandemic.

As the pandemic continues to wane, healthcare workers are returning to hospitals and doctors’ offices. The return is great, but the numbers are still down, and jobs are still left vacant. In fact, healthcare employment has still not returned to pre-pandemic numbers. Even in those who have returned, anecdotal evidence suggests many are thinking of leaving soon. This means sick people, some of the most vulnerable in society, will feel the consequences. 

Technology and the Healthcare Labor shortage

How do healthcare providers keep their invaluable workers and staff? How do they combat the pressures and stressors created and highlighted by the worldwide pandemic? The short answer is technology.

Healthcare providers can automate different tasks to allow healthcare providers – doctors and nurses – the freedom and space to care for patients. The best news is we live in the age of technology. There are dozens of different technological applications that can be used in these areas.

Inbound Calls

Hospitals and doctors’ offices are often overloaded by inbound calls, even when they are fully staffed. When these providers are understaffed, however, it can be time-consuming to field these ceaseless inbound calls. Patients can and should be encouraged to schedule their own appointments through web-based applications and portals. Not only will this open up more time and space for healthcare providers, but these tasks help empower patients to be more involved in their healthcare journey.

 

staffing in healthcare
Technology allows patients to book their appointments online

 Intake Process

The amount of paperwork in the healthcare industry is daunting. Technology, however, can limit the paperwork and streamline the intake process altogether. Mobile check-in and registration can make it easier for patients to check in, but it also limits the person-to-person contact that so easily spreads diseases.

 Access and Availability

Perhaps the best advantage of medicine is the access and availability afforded through telemedicine. Telemedicine isn’t necessarily “new,” but it has been brought to the forefront. Telemedicine is the ability to meet with medical professionals and healthcare workers to get information and establish treatment plans.

It’s especially beneficial when it comes to specialized medicine, like radiology. Teleradiology, the term widely used for this specific section, is a much more recent development. It helps patients get information and necessary access to radiology professionals.

Teleradiology allows a radiologist to get, review, and interpret CT or MRI images. Radiologists are able to communicate important information to patients who are desperate for that information. It means fewer radiologists can meet with more patients and get those patients the information and treatment they need.

Virtual Monitoring Systems

Telesitter programs help reduce the workload and potential burnout for nurses. With these systems, cameras are setup so that virtual monitoring can take place and track patient activity. Any time there are concerns or emergencies, staff would be notified.

telemonitoring
Telesitters offer virtual monitoring

The world is changing. It’s the one true constant. But technology offers us the chance to adapt and modify the ways we move about in the world. Technology can make things easier and fill in the gaps that form.