One of the biggest issues currently facing diagnostic imaging is the issue of
dose management. While radiation is absolutely necessary it can unfortunately
put a patient at the risk of cancer. Part of the problem lies in the fact that
a blanket amount of radiation is generally considered right for patients. It
hasn’t been until recently that smaller doses have been used without
sacrificing the image and lowering the risk. There is still a concern that
lowering dosage will be negative in the short run so a lot of physicians will
go with what’s recommended.
Currently there are many scrambles and attempts to change
the dosage issue because of a multitude of problems such as:
·
Legislation toward that effect.
·
Protests against too high a dosage.
·
State and federal regulations constantly
changing.
·
Costs associated with using less radiation.
·
Pressure from healthcare writers.
With as many situations as the ones mentioned, it’s easy to
see how this can actually be an issue. It’s refreshing to see how consultants
are now stepping up to the plate with ideas for radiation management. Some of
the interesting suggestions include building a good safety committee. A
radiation safety committee is not an idea of having some guy or gal with a
clipboard saying “ Well this needs to be changed.” A radiation safety committee
is made up of experts that are licensed in respective fields and understand
about the effects of radiation for the staff and patient. Short-term effects
are as unpredictable as long term effects.
Some of the other points for dose management, according to
consultant Neomi Mullens included:
·
Workflow understanding.
·
CT protocol review.
·
Software automation.
·
Policy procedure and risk management.
·
Communication, education, training.
·
Marketing Plan.
While all these points make a lot of sense, one concern is
how financially sound this is. Often times practices and larger institutions
have an enormous amount of expenses.It will be interesting to see how these
points are implemented as time passes.
If you have any questions about X-Rays, Ct scans, MRI scans
and other procedures, please feel free to give us a call. Our attentive staff
here at Clermont Radiology is always eager to answer any questions that you may
have.
Charla
Hurst
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