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Top Imaging News of 2023

As we bid adieu to the final moments of 2023, it’s a great time to reflect on advancements and studies that have redefined the world of imaging this year. In this article, we’ll delve into the hottest news and breakthroughs in imaging, highlighting the remarkable strides that have made the headlines.

Study Suggest that Cancer Death Risk From Low-Dose Radiation Is Underestimated

A recent study featured in the British Medical Journal unveils concerning associations between extended exposure to low-dose radiation, commonly experienced by nuclear industry workers, and amplified cancer-related mortality. Drawing insights from the International Nuclear Workers Study (INWORKS) encompassing data from over 300,000 workers, researchers discovered a stark reality: for each cumulative unit of radiation exposure, the risk of death from solid cancer surged by 52%. Even at the lowest cumulative doses, this risk doubled, challenging the assumption that low-dose exposures present less carcinogenic hazard. While the absolute risk remains small, these findings prompt reconsideration of safety limits for workers and call for further studies to confirm the accelerated risk of cancer with ionizing radiation exposure. The hope is that regulatory bodies will integrate these insights into revising protection standards for individuals exposed to low-dose radiation.

Long COVID

In a study published in Medical Hypotheses, a French group presented a theory regarding the brain fog experienced in long COVID, based on brain patterns identified in patient PET scans. They propose that inflammation triggered by COVID-19 disrupts astrocyte cells’ regulation of glutamate, impacting energy metabolism and leading to cognitive fatigue. The authors suggest targeting this malfunction with therapies focused on astrocytic glutamate regulation as a potential way to alleviate long-COVID neurological symptoms. They highlight the lack of mental clarity, difficulty concentrating, and cognitive strain characterizing long COVID, affecting up to 15% of patients after three months of the initial infection. This study builds on previous findings of hypometabolism patterns in long COVID patients’ brain images and explores cellular mechanisms, including links between glutamate dysregulation and cognitive fatigue from other studies. Drawing parallels with “chemo-fog” in cancer patients and cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease, the authors suggest therapeutic strategies targeting the identified brain patterns, citing examples from epilepsy treatments and a recent study using medication to improve cognitive function in long-COVID patients. However, the authors stress the need for further research, proposing PET imaging studies using specific markers to comprehend astrocyte function and glutamate regulation for a comprehensive understanding of long COVID’s underlying mechanisms.

chemo fog — Study on brain fog experienced in long COVID

MRIs and Past Cannabis Users

At the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM) annual meeting, New Zealand researchers presented findings on heavy cannabis use in adolescence to early adulthood and its correlation with brain structure differences in hippocampus and amygdala subregions. The study, led by medical physicist Rebecca Lee and colleagues from the University of Otago in Christchurch, indicated volumetric disparities in these brain regions among heavy cannabis users compared to non-using controls. Notably, past cannabis users showed smaller volumes in specific hippocampal and amygdala subregions. However, the research did not find detectable differences in cerebral blood flow or white-matter tract integrity related to cannabis use, suggesting potential transient brain changes or no long-term effect on these properties. The study, conducted using MRI techniques, emphasized the need for longitudinal studies to clarify the causation and long-term functional impacts of these structural brain changes associated with heavy cannabis use. Despite revealing structural brain changes linked to cannabis use, the study does not definitively establish a causal relationship between these changes and cannabis consumption. Further prospective longitudinal MRI studies are essential to elucidate causality in this context.

All About AI

We’d be remiss to not mention how artificial intelligence has shaped the industry this year. Check out our previous articles highlighting the impact that ChatGPT and Bard have made in 2023.

Sources:

technologynetworks.com
auntminnie.com
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.”

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Sources:

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

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.

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/

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!

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.