Tuesday, November 5, 2013

How Can Imaging Get Better?

Diagnostic imaging has a set of standards that are in place for the purpose of ensuring quality. X-Rays, MRI scans, and CT scans all have to meet a standard of quality. Standards are not put in place so that patients can be charged they have a real reason for existing. Patient well being is the primary concern of all physicians and accuracy in a diagnosis and treatment program are vital. When standards are not followed or are not high enough, the patient suffers. When a patient suffers there is a chain reaction that creates adverse effects for everyone involved.

It’s fair to ask, how can standards improve? Standards in imaging are handled by separate groups that try to look at issues from the patient’s perspective. Through numerous studies there is a course of action that’s suggested and subsequently implemented. In a recent article about imaging standards being expanded Wayne Forrest wrote “A number of revisions have been suggested. For example, facilities that provide CT, PET, or nuclear medicine services would be required to monitor radiation exposure levels for all staff and licensed independent practitioners who routinely work with those modalities. The commission noted that the precautions are typically addressed with exposure meters, such as personal dosimetry badges.” This is the kind of standard that applies to both patient and practitioner.

Radiation is diagnostic imaging is a concern, considering that repeated exposure can put a person at risk. Setting a standard that monitors radiation and falls in line with the new controlled dosages that rely on size, age, and condition. While this particular standard speaks more to the fact that there is a set of regulations in place for radiation, it’s a clear example of the desire to ultimately improve patient care.

Standards are not just being expanded to make sure that staff is safe. There is a push to ensure that equipment functions are specified. Uniformity and position accuracy are some of the things subject to closer scrutiny. As long as the equipment is working properly, and all regulations are being followed, the patient wins. While commissions are put together to ensure these particular standards, it’s vital for the physician to be able to tell his or her staff what’s expected in terms of quality.

If you have any questions about diagnostic imaging procedures please feel free to give us a call. We here at Clermont Radiology look forward to answering any questions that you may have. We have a great commitment to providing the best quality and highest standards in imaging.


Charla Hurst General
Operations Manager
Charla@ClermontRadiology.com  
352-241-6100 




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