Abstract
Background
There is no streamlined approach for sharing radiologic images among medical institutions. Common methods to transfer imaging between facilities include electronic image-sharing platforms and physical media, such as compact discs (CDs). The prompt and secure transfer of imaging is vital for patient safety as demand for imaging increases.
Objective
Use a survey-based study to outline the methods and difficulties of image sharing among U.S. children’s hospitals.
Materials and methods
A multi-question survey regarding radiologic image sharing was distributed to children’s hospital department chairs in the United States in August 2021. Descriptive statistical analyses of the results were performed.
Results
Our results reveal 78% of responding U.S. children’s hospitals have an electronic image-sharing platform. Twenty-seven percent of surveyed institutions experience daily difficulties with radiologic image sharing. Most of the difficulties are with CDs (67%) and a lack of interoperability among electronic image-sharing platforms (51%).
Conclusion
Our study identified the various methods used by U.S. children’s hospitals for radiologic image sharing and quantified the ongoing challenges with these systems.
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Acknowledgments
This paper is dedicated to Raegan Elizabeth Mize, who inspired us to help improve image sharing for other sick children and to continue her legacy.
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Roddenberry, N.R., Hartmann, T.C., Smith, J.E. et al. Radiologic image sharing among U.S. children’s hospitals. Pediatr Radiol 53, 193–197 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-022-05474-9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-022-05474-9