Medical imaging has made tremendous progress in a short time, and it's not slowing down. You can get the most advanced diagnostic imaging in Long Island, NY. Technology means better diagnosis, easier and safer procedures for patients, better management of the imaging process, and more sharing of information among medical professionals. Here's a look at some of the trends in medical imaging technology.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is generating a lot of talk. Don't expect a "digital" radiologist to become a reality soon, but machines are refining algorithms and producing valuable data. AI can retrieve past results and reports, so there's more data and the data is available quicker. AI is making a radiologist's work easier and allowing the radiologist to make better use of his or her time and resources.
3D Imaging
With 3D imaging, medical professionals can see more angles and get better images of blood vessels, bones, and internal organs. These images help medical professionals with their diagnosis and aid surgeons with complex operations. The use of 3D imaging saves time because the 3D technologists can summarize the images so the radiologist and referring physician don't have to. Consider the success of 3D mammography in early breast cancer detection.
Hybrid Imaging
Some hospitals are going to hybrid imaging. Examples include the combination of positron emission tomography (PET) and computerized tomography (CT). Some manufacturers have stopped making stand-alone PET machines. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been combined with PET, and CT has been joined with single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). The hybrid PET/MRI and SPECT/CT systems improve diagnostics, a step toward better treatment.
Stand Upright MRI
Open upright MRI scanners accommodate patients who have trouble undergoing a traditional MRI scan. They're used for patients who are claustrophobic, can't lie down because of a medical condition, or are too large for a conventional MRI.
Clinical Decisions
Providers of diagnostic imaging are getting Clinical Decisions Support software in place to make sure imaging service is appropriate under the circumstances and that the provider of the imaging services will get reimbursement.
Reduced Radiation Dosage
A concern in medical imaging has long been a patient's exposure to radiation. Hospitals and other providers are looking for imaging technology with lower doses of radiology. The risk to patients can be reduced by improving imaging and requiring fewer tests.
Competition
Many patients are facing higher deductibles. That means patients and their insurance companies will shop for lower prices for medical imaging. Patients also want convenience, so providers need to make obtaining medical imaging easy and accommodate the schedules of their patients. This may drive patients from hospitals to smaller or mobile facilities offering comparable services.
Peconic Bay Medical Center offers the latest in imaging technology. Call to take advantage of advanced diagnostic tools.