Image Workflow

Abstract

Diagnostic radiology departments have a dual mission. One is to provide the highest quality of care possible for their patients. The second is to maximize income (or at least, minimize loss). To a large extent, this is not too dissimilar from the role and goals of an industrial assembly line environment in which the goals are to maintain a high level of quality and consistency while maximizing efficiency and productivity. During the past few years, the increased penetration of managed care, increased competition among diagnostic imaging providers, and other factors have resulted in decreased reimbursement rates. This has resulted in the need to decrease personnel and other operating expenses while maintaining or in most cases, increasing the volume of studies. Imaging departments have been asked to absorb these reductions in resources without any compromise in the quality of services.

“Mr. Abrahams, Mr. Abrahams! I can find you another two yards.”

Sam Mussabini (Olympic trainer), Chariots of Fire