TELE-RADIOLOGY

Tele-radiology is the transmission of radiological patient images such as X-ray, CT, MRI and ultrasound from one location to another. The purpose of these image transmissions is to share knowledge with other clinicians or for radiologist’s report. Computers, telephone network and internet facilities are used for the image transmission.

Tele-radiology improves service quality to patients where radiologists will be able to provide their services without the need to be at the same hospital where the patient is undergoing treatment.

In Tele-radiology, a hospital without a resident radiologist will not only be able to obtain radiology service from a hospital with a radiologist in emergency cases but will also be able to obtain radiological reports from a radiologist with sub-specialisation.

Sending films for radiologist’s report by post to another hospital will take a long time and this will affect patient management. The advancement of digital technology has enabled transmission of images and reports to be done easily and faster just like sending an e-mail with attachments.

Ultimately, tele-radiology will improve the quality of healthcare services and increase satisfaction to both healthcare personnel and patients.