The impact of PACS on radiologists' work practice.

Autor: Fridell K, Edgren L, Lindsköld L, Aspelin P, Lundberg N
Zdroj: Journal of Digital Imaging; Dec2007, Vol. 20 Issue 4, p411-421, 11p
Abstrakt: This paper identifies and analyzes how the implementation and use of picture archiving and communication system impacts radiologists' work practice. The study is longitudinal from 1999 to 2005 and have a qualitative perspective were data were collected by structured interviews in a total of 46. The interviews were transcribed, analyzed, and coded using grounded theory as an organizing principle. In radiologists' work practice, three main categories were defined: professional role, diagnostic practice, and technology in use. The changing trends within the professional role indicated that radiologists moved from a more individual professional expertise to become more of an actor in a network. The diagnostic practice changed, as reading x-ray films was seen as an art form in 1999, requiring years of training. Once everyone could view digital images, including 3-dimensional technology, it was easier for other clinicians to see and interpret the images and the skills become accessible to everyone. The change in technology in use as a result of the shift to digital images led to an increased specialization of the radiologist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Complementary Index