Systems and Methods for Obtaining Readings of Diagnostic Imaging Studies

Abstract

Systems and methods for method providing a diagnostic image study to one or more interpreters may include receiving the diagnostic image study at a first translator, making the diagnostic image study available to one or more board certified and credentialed interpreters substantially simultaneously, and selecting one or more of the interpreters to provide an interpretation of the images based on one or more variables.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. application of, and claims priority from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 334,919, filed Jan. 19, 2006, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND ART[0002]The present invention relates to the transport and distribution of diagnostics image studies and, in particular, to systems and methods for obtaining readings of diagnostic images from interpreters in locations remote from where the diagnostic images were created.[0003]It is known in the prior art to utilize the Digital Imaging in Communication and Medicine (DICOM) standard to electronically transfer diagnostic imaging studies from a modality or PACS (Picture Archiving and Communications System) (both of which may be referred to as an “imaging device” herein) to a remote user. Examples of modalities include CAT scanners, X-ray machines, and MRI machines. The output of these devices may be...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]Embodiments of the present invention may solve one or more of the above mentioned limitations of the prior art. For instance, embodiments of the present invention may allow operators of imaging devices to make a particular imaging study available to one or more interpreters that may be located in a location remote from the operators. In addition, some embodiments may allow for interpreters to place “bids” on the interpretations. Bidding could include price, time of interpretation or any other requirement. For instance, if multiple interpreters are simultaneously presented with a imaging study, the first to respond may provide interpretation. In another example, the interpreter that offers to provide the interpretation for the lowest amount may be awarded the interpretation. In this manner, operators of imaging devices may be able to receive more timely or more cost efficient (or both) interpretations of medical imaging studies.

Problems solved by technology

Many operators of imaging devices may experience difficulties in ensuring timely and competent interpretations of imaging studies.

These difficulties may arise from many different sources.

That is, the interpreters that are located at the operator of the imaging device (e.g., a hospital) may not have the time to return interpretations in a timely manner.

In particular, the operator is not allowed to charge for a procedure until a final interpretation of the images has been completed.

In addition, the costs associated with hiring additional interpreters (e.g., radiologists) may exceed the budget of a particular image operator.

For instance, a small hospital in a relatively unpopulated area may not have the resources or the demand to hire a full time specialist to interpret images.

The small hospital, however, may still need, for time to time, to have interpretations done on imaging studies.

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