2008 May

Workflow is the No. 1 challenge facing radiology departments andimaging centers focused on efficiency. Those that tame the workflowbeast can list numerous positive outcomes.

Data availability is crucial for the provision of quality medical care. Healthcare data flows and interacts with multiple sources within and across institutions. Therefore, the backbone of the diagnostic matrix—patient histories, imaging studies and lab results—must be available at all times whenever and wherever they’re needed.

Radiology operates in a constantly and rapidly changing environment. Consequently, digital image management is an ongoing project. The common denominators at hospitals across the country include investment in new data-intense imaging modalities, PACS infusion throughout the enterprise, bursting archives and overburdened radiologists and technologists. 

We’re taking a closer look at the Top Ten Job Titles by number ofrespondents to gain insight into salaries as well as education levels,FTEs they supervise and the departments to which they report.

The Health Imaging & IT Healthcare IT Salary survey weconducted for this issue provides great insight into the salaries of IT professionals, but it goes beyond that to provide a snapshot of thebusiness and IT priorities of our readers.

More open magnet design, new coil technology, faster sequences andhigh-quality images are helping to maintain 1.5T MRI as a standard ofcare—clearly a clinical workhorse.

Advanced software applications and surgeons’ ability to conduct moreprecise, image-enabled and image-guided procedures make access toimages in the OR increasingly important. Facilities are expanding andimplementing PACS and displays that allow for easier imagedistribution, while accommodating a variety of needs from theirdifferent surgeons.

Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) coupled with on-board cone-beamCT are delivering dramatic improvements in the radiation therapyprocess. By carefully pairing images and treatment, IGRT and cone-beamCT allow radiation oncologists to increase the dose, spare more normaltissue, and ultimately, improve patient outcomes.

In healthcare IT, the best strategy starts with buying the righttechnology for your facility, its current needs and future growth.