From the January 2017 issue of HealthCare Business News magazine
Vendor neutral archives (VNA) is one way to create this data exchange and improve clinical productivity. Initially, it was developed to connect siloed departments and manage image storage and distribution throughout the hospital. This creates cost savings, IT efficiency and improves patient outcomes by making relevant data accessible. VNAs need to continue pioneering integration progress with other patient information systems, such as EHRs, EMRs and personal health records. This evolution will greatly assist the development of tailored treatment plans for each patient, and thus help radiologists track toward value in the new year.
Advances in imaging and image-guided surgery open a completely new area in replacing traditional surgeries with minimally invasive procedures (such as TAVI) that drastically reduce patient risk and improve accessibility to care. This is yet another area where radiologists can provide value through precision imaging measurement. This strategy helps radiology align closer with the patient and provide better coordinated care. Despite the ever-changing health care landscape, the future of radiology on the 2017 horizon is bright. Radiologists will continue to play an important role in the journey to value-based care from improving patient outcomes to cost-efficient techniques. Through the adoption of innovative technologies and solutions, radiology departments will not only continue to make an impact, but will drastically improve overall quality of care.
About the author: Scott Galbari is the vice president of marketing and portfolio at McKesson Imaging and Workflow Solutions.Back to HCB News
