Operating procedures for a medical imaging system

Abstract

The invention relates to a computer-implemented method (200) for use in a medical imaging system (100). The medical imaging system (100) comprises at least one imaging modality (106) operable via remote control and at least one workstation (104) remote from the at least one imaging modality (106) for at least one operator (302). A respective capability value is assigned to each of the at least one operator (302). The respective capability value indicates the operator's (302) ability to perform medical imaging procedures with the at least one imaging modality (106).Data for a medical imaging procedure to be performed using an imaging modality (106) are recorded and an operator (302) of at least one operator (302) is assigned to the imaging modality (106) if the capability value assigned to the operator (302) is below a requirement value specified for the medical imaging procedure to be performed.

Description

Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to operating methods for a medical imaging system, in particular for a medical imaging system comprising an imaging modality operable via remote control and a workstation remote from the imaging modality.

[0002] Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, persons with male, female or other gender identities are included. Background of the invention

[0003] In modern medical facilities, expertise in imaging is crucial for performing complex procedures such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These procedures require not only highly specialized knowledge of how the imaging modalities work, but also experience in their application and the interpretation of the results. Generally, these processes rely on the physical presence of technologists or medical professionals throughout the entire imaging procedure.

[0004] However, healthcare providers are increasingly facing the challenge that qualified professionals are often unavailable locally, particularly in rural or remote areas. This leads to long waiting times or unnecessary travel for patients and may even pose a risk to their health. Furthermore, particularly time-consuming measurements during imaging require the constant physical presence of a technologist, resulting in inefficiencies and consuming valuable working time.

[0005] To ensure flexible and on-demand access to the necessary technical expertise for performing medical imaging procedures, remote monitoring of imaging procedures can be implemented. This solution is based on the idea that expertise does not necessarily have to be located on-site, but can be provided from remote locations when needed.

[0006] By using remote monitoring technologies, imaging procedures can be performed under the guidance and control of healthcare professionals without their physical presence. This enables interaction between a remote workstation staffed by qualified medical professionals and the imaging modality on-site. This means that healthcare professionals no longer need to be physically present at the imaging modality location but can contribute their expertise from remote locations.

[0007] This allows for a more efficient use of expertise and resources, as specialists are no longer tied to a specific location but can be deployed flexibly wherever and whenever their expertise is needed. This can not only optimize workflows but also enable better patient care, particularly in rural or underserved areas, by avoiding long waiting times or unnecessary travel.

[0008] Despite this more efficient use of expertise, many countries around the world experience a 10-20% staffing shortage, leading to long patient wait times, unused imaging modalities, unused remote workstations, and so on. Various approaches to improving this staffing shortage are being pursued with regard to the aforementioned system components, particularly imaging modalities and (remote) workstations. For example, artificial intelligence (AI) techniques are being used in the field of imaging modalities to automate workflows and enable less skilled operators to use them. Manufacturers of imaging modalities offer staffing services to provide personnel to radiology practices suffering from staffing shortages.Remotely monitored or remotely controlled imaging enables highly skilled technologists to operate imaging modalities remotely, making their expertise available remotely and alleviating the shortage of qualified personnel. Manufacturers of imaging modalities can leverage this to offer remote imaging as a service. Scheduling software can be used to facilitate effective shift planning for personnel and imaging modalities.

[0009] Despite the possibility of operating imaging modalities remotely, there is often not enough suitable specialist personnel available, i.e., specialists with the appropriate skills and experience, so examinations have to be postponed and / or imaging modalities cannot be used. Summary of the invention

[0010] The task, therefore, is to enable a flexible and needs-based allocation of specialist expertise, as required for carrying out medical imaging procedures.

[0011] This problem is solved by a computer-implemented method for use in a medical imaging system, by a medical imaging system, and by a computer program product, which are defined in the independent claims. The dependent claims define embodiments.

[0012] One aspect of the present invention relates to a computer-implemented method for use in a medical imaging system. The medical imaging system comprises at least one imaging modality operable via remote control and at least one workstation for at least one operator located remote from the at least one imaging modality.

[0013] In this procedure, each operator is assigned a specific skill score. This skill score indicates the operator's proficiency in performing medical imaging procedures using at least one imaging modality. The skill score, which can also include multiple values, essentially indicates the operator's capabilities for various examinations using different devices. These different imaging procedures might involve examinations of various organs, such as the head, limbs, or internal organs, or examinations related to a current or suspected illness, such as an oncological examination, an examination of bone fractures, or an examination for injuries to internal organs.Various imaging modalities can include, for example, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner, an X-ray tomography (X-ray) scanner, a scintigraphy system, a positron emission tomography (PET) scanner, an ultrasound system, and the like. The capability score can, for example, include one or more imaging modality-specific capability scores. Each imaging modality-specific capability score indicates the operator's ability to control a particular imaging modality. In other examples, the capability score can include one or more imaging procedure-specific capability scores. Each imaging procedure-specific capability score indicates the operator's ability to perform a medical imaging procedure using the imaging modality. The operator can, for example, include a technologist, particularly a medical technologist, or medical personnel.

[0014] The procedure also involves collecting data for a planned medical imaging procedure using at least one imaging modality. This data may include, for example, patient-related data, data on a required imaging modality, data on a body region or organ of interest, data on an initial suspicion of a disease in the patient being examined, current medical status data of the patient being examined, or data on a planned time for the imaging procedure.

[0015] Finally, in the imaging modality procedure, an operator is assigned to at least one operator if the operator's assigned skill level is below a predefined requirement level for the medical imaging procedure to be performed, in order to participate in the medical imaging procedure via the remote workstation. In some examples, the data for the medical imaging procedure to be performed includes the predefined requirement level. In other examples, the predefined requirement level is determined from the data for the medical imaging procedure to be performed.

[0016] Assigning an operator whose skill level is below the required level for the medical imaging procedure is based on the understanding that, in practice, an operator who meets or exceeds the required level is often unavailable for the procedure. However, since medical imaging procedures are frequently planned well in advance, for example, not scheduled for several days or weeks, it is possible to provide further training to an operator whose skill level is only slightly below the required level so that the required level is met by the time the medical imaging procedure is performed.This may be particularly relevant if a shortage of operators is identified for certain medical imaging procedures, so that relevant training can permanently contribute to ensuring that more people have sufficient qualifications to perform these medical imaging procedures, thereby enabling better use of imaging modalities and reducing waiting times for medical imaging procedures.

[0017] The process can be carried out automatically by a computing device, such as a computer, a server, or a computing device of a cloud service.

[0018] The capability score can be a dimensionless numerical value. In particular, the capability score can be a dimensionless numerical value in the range of 0 to 100. If more specific capability scores are assigned to an operator, such as the imaging modality-specific capability scores mentioned above and / or imaging procedure-specific capability scores, each of these specific capability scores can also be specified by a dimensionless numerical value in the range of, for example, 0 to 100. The corresponding requirement scores can also be specified as dimensionless numerical values, for example, in the range of 0 to 100. A match or fulfillment of a requirement can thus be easily determined by comparing the corresponding numerical values. In particular, a discrepancy or gap between requirement and capability can also be identified and quantified.

[0019] For example, further training can be automatically determined for the assigned operator depending on the skill level of the assigned operator and / or the specified requirement level.

[0020] Preferably, the training measure is scheduled so that it takes place and is completed before the medical imaging procedure is carried out.

[0021] Several options are available for conducting the training. For example, the training can be web-based and completed at a remote workstation. This allows for a high degree of flexibility in terms of time and location. The operator can complete the training at any time after being assigned to the web-based course, for example, at a remote workstation or even a home office. It is also possible to interrupt or divide the training into several sessions to promote its acceptance.

[0022] In other examples, automatic registration for in-person training can be implemented. This can take into account situations where the same or at least similar training is planned for multiple operators. The in-person training can be scheduled for a time prior to the operators' respective medical imaging procedures. This allows the in-person training to be conducted efficiently and promptly.

[0023] Another example of a training measure is the operator's participation in the medical imaging procedure as an observer at a remote workstation. An operator who already possesses considerable experience in the assigned imaging modality and / or the medical imaging procedure to be performed, but who does not yet have the sufficient qualifications to independently perform the medical imaging procedure using that modality, can be assigned to the imaging modality alongside a more experienced operator. The more experienced operator performs the imaging procedure, while the operator who is not yet sufficiently qualified simply observes or, under the supervision and instruction of the more experienced operator, performs individual parts of the imaging procedure, thereby receiving further training.

[0024] Assigning a corresponding skill score, particularly imaging modality-specific and imaging procedure-specific skill scores, to a given operator can be done in several ways. For example, a test can be administered at the remote workstation. This test assesses the operator's skills related to the medical imaging procedure to be performed. The test can also assess the operator's skills related to the imaging modality to be used, especially in conjunction with the medical imaging procedure. Thus, a test can assign both imaging modality-specific and imaging procedure-specific skill scores. In another example, operator performance during in-person training sessions is recorded, and the operator's skill score(s) are assigned and / or modified based on these results.Finally, according to another example, medical imaging procedures performed by the operator in the past can be analyzed, and the operator's skill score(s) can be assigned and / or modified based on this analysis. In particular, medical imaging procedures performed by the operator remotely can be analyzed to assign and / or modify the operator's skill score(s).If an operator has already performed a high number of imaging procedures with a specific imaging modality in various areas, such as the head and limbs, and achieved good results—for example, a low number of erroneous images and / or rapid completion of the imaging procedures—the operator can be assigned to imaging procedures in other areas, such as cardiology. This is particularly feasible if the operator has performed these imaging procedures remotely, thus demonstrating relevant experience in operating the imaging modality remotely. Appropriate preparatory web-based training can be offered automatically to the operator, or the operator can be assigned as an observer for a cardiology examination.Conversely, detected operator errors in certain imaging modalities or a hesitant and / or slow execution of an imaging procedure may result in the operator being automatically offered or assigned retraining.

[0025] In further embodiments, the method includes adjusting a user interface associated with the imaging modality of a human-machine interface of the medical imaging system depending on the skill level of the assigned operator. For example, an operator with a high skill level, i.e., a skill level significantly higher than the required level, can be presented with a user interface that, while somewhat more complex to operate, enables faster operation and provides individual settings for a large number of parameters.For example, an operator with a lower skill level, such as a skill level that is within the range of the required skill level, can be presented with a user interface that guides the operator through an imaging procedure with corresponding help texts and only provides various default settings for the multitude of parameters.

[0026] In further examples, the operator is assigned to the imaging modality based on their availability data, enabling them to participate in the medical imaging procedure from a remote workstation. This allows for efficient utilization of both the imaging modality and the operator. The operator's availability data can include information such as normal working hours, shift schedules, and / or absences.

[0027] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a processing device for use in a medical imaging system. The medical imaging system comprises at least one remotely controllable imaging modality, at least one remote workstation for at least one operator, and the processing device. The processing device is configured to assign a skill value to each of the at least one operator. The skill value indicates the operator's ability to perform medical imaging procedures with the at least one imaging modality. The processing device is also capable of acquiring data for a medical imaging procedure to be performed with an imaging modality of the at least one imaging modality.Each medical imaging procedure to be performed is assigned a corresponding requirement value. The processing device assigns an operator (or at least one operator) to the imaging modality if the operator's assigned skill value is below the requirement value specified for the medical imaging procedure to be performed. By assigning the operator to the imaging modality, the operator participates in the performance of the medical imaging procedure via the remote workstation.

[0028] The processing device can also be configured to carry out the procedure described above.

[0029] One aspect of the present invention relates to a medical imaging system comprising at least one imaging modality operable via remote control, at least one workstation for at least one operator located away from the at least one imaging modality, and the processing device described above.

[0030] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a computer program product comprising program elements that cause a processing device of a medical imaging system to perform a method by having the processing device execute steps of the method when the program elements are loaded into a memory of the processing device. The medical imaging system comprises at least one remotely operable imaging modality and at least one remote workstation for at least one operator. The method comprises assigning a respective skill value to each of the at least one operator. The respective skill value indicates the operator's ability to perform medical imaging procedures with the at least one imaging modality.The procedure further includes the collection of data for a medical imaging procedure to be performed using an imaging modality of at least one imaging modality and the assignment of an operator of at least one operator to the imaging modality if the capability value assigned to the operator is below a requirement value specified for the medical imaging procedure to be performed in order to participate in the performance of the medical imaging procedure via the remote workplace.

[0031] Another aspect concerns a computer-readable medium on which program elements are stored that can be executed by a processing device of a medical imaging system to carry out the procedure described above, in order to perform the steps of the procedure when the program elements are executed by the processing device.

[0032] The realization of the invention through a computer program product and / or a computer-readable medium has the advantage that existing systems can be easily adapted by software updates to work as proposed by the invention.

[0033] The computer program product can be, for example, a computer program itself, or it can include, in addition to the computer program, another element. This other element can be hardware, such as a storage device on which the computer program is stored, a hardware key for using the computer program, and the like, and / or software, such as documentation or a software key for using the computer program. The computer program product can also include development material, a runtime system, and / or databases or libraries. The computer program product can be distributed across multiple computer instances.

[0034] The properties, features and advantages of this invention described above, as well as the manner in which they are achieved, will become clearer and more easily understood in connection with the following description of the exemplary embodiments, which are explained in more detail in conjunction with the drawings. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 shows a medical imaging system for performing a medical imaging procedure according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 shows a method for performing a medical imaging procedure according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 shows an interaction of components of a medical imaging system according to one embodiment. Description of the exemplary implementations

[0035] Some examples in this disclosure generally provide for a variety of circuits or other electrical devices. All references to the circuits and other electrical devices and the functionality they provide are not intended to be limited to only what is shown and described herein. Even if certain designations may be assigned to the various circuits or other electrical devices, these are not intended to limit the scope of function of the circuits and other electrical devices.

[0036] It is understood that the following description of embodiments is not to be understood in a limiting sense. The scope of the invention is not to be limited by the embodiments described below or by the drawings, which serve only for illustration.

[0037] The drawings are to be considered schematic representations, and the elements depicted in the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale. Rather, the various elements are represented in such a way that their function and general purpose are recognizable to a person skilled in the art. Any connection or coupling between functional blocks, devices, components, or other physical or functional units shown in or described herein may also be realized by an indirect connection or coupling. Coupling between components may also be established via a wireless connection. Functional blocks may be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof.

[0038] Some groups of elements, such as imaging modalities or workstations, are identified by reference numerals consisting of a number and, optionally, a trailing letter. Depending on the context, the same reference numeral can denote a single element or all elements of the group. For example, each workstation 104A, 104B, 104C is one of several workstations 104. Identical reference numerals in different drawings refer to similar or identical components.

[0039] The embodiments described herein provide a computer-implemented method that realizes a comprehensive medical imaging system to fundamentally address the shortage of qualified operators for radiological equipment in diagnostic imaging (e.g., MRI, CT) and also to increase overall personnel efficiency in the field of radiology. These embodiments essentially relate to a computer-implemented method for operating equipment and personnel that may interact during radiological examinations. This includes various components of the medical imaging system, such as imaging modalities (e.g., MRI scanners), operators (e.g., technologists such as medical-technical assistants), planning systems for radiological examinations and curricula, as well as training materials for operators.

[0040] Measures can be taken with regard to equipment and personnel to ensure efficient deployment of operators and efficient use of imaging modalities. For example, artificial intelligence techniques can be used to at least partially automate the workflow for operating imaging modalities, thus enabling them to be operated by less skilled personnel. Manufacturers of imaging modalities can provide a pool of operators to compensate for staffing shortages at customer sites. In particular, remote control techniques can be used to operate customer sites from remote workstations. Furthermore, scheduling software can be used to implement more targeted and effective shift planning.A wide range of training and professional development opportunities can be provided for operators, such as courses and e-learning programs. The planning software can take these training and professional development opportunities into account.

[0041] The computer-implemented method can be designed to interconnect all the aforementioned components of the medical imaging system. A quantitative capability score can be introduced as a common means of communication between the participating components. This allows imaging modalities, operator capability profiles, dynamic scheduling, and educational applications and services to form an interdependent system that optimizes the distribution of capabilities across the entire system and enhances those capabilities. Using these capability scores, automated and optimized allocation of available operators to imaging procedures, imaging modalities, and educational offerings is possible without human intervention.

[0042] The operators may include personnel from medical facilities or the manufacturer of the imaging modalities. The operators may be located on-site or at a remote workstation.

[0043] The user interface of an imaging modality can be designed to allow switching between different operating modes during operation. These modes can include, for example, an expert mode, a non-expert mode, and other intermediate modes. The appropriate user interface mode can be automatically selected based on the skill level of the assigned operator. The user interface can also allow for a continuous differentiation, for example, from 0 (non-expert) to 100 (expert).

[0044] Overall, an automated system can be provided that optimizes the distribution of skills and improves operator knowledge. A self-regulating distribution dynamic can be achieved through the behavior and communication of all system components with each other, using the skill value.

[0045] Fig. Figure 1 shows a medical imaging system 100. The imaging system 100 comprises at least one remotely operable imaging modality 106, at least one workstation 104 located remotely from the at least one imaging modality 106, and a processing device 108. The medical imaging system 100 comprises components and / or units that may be distributed over a large area. Thus, individual system components may be located at different sites or locations. System components may also be located at the same site.

[0046] Workstations 104 can be assigned to operators who possess the ability to operate at least some of the imaging modalities 106. Workstations 104 can be, for example, home offices or workplaces in a hospital, a radiology institute, or at a manufacturer of the imaging modalities 106. In the Fig. In the example shown, three workstations 104A, 104B and 104C are provided. However, this number is only an example and any number of workstations 104 could be provided, for example several hundred.

[0047] Imaging modalities 106 may be located, for example, in medical facilities 102, such as a hospital, clinic, or radiology institute. Although in Fig. 3 If only three medical facilities 102A, 102B and 102C are shown, the imaging modalities 106 may be located in more than the three medical facilities 102 shown or in fewer than the medical facilities 102 shown.

[0048] The imaging modalities 106 can be, for example, CT, ultrasound, X-ray (e.g., mammography), angiography, or MRI systems; however, other types of imaging modalities are equally possible. In the Fig. The example shown in Figure 1 depicts nine imaging modalities, 106A to 106J. However, this number is only an example, and any number of imaging modalities 106 may be provided, for example, several dozen, several hundred, or more.

[0049] The medical facilities 102 and the imaging devices 106 provided therein, the workstations 104, and the processing device 108 are interconnected via a data transmission network 110. The data transmission network 110 can comprise one or more wired or wireless data transmission networks. The processing device 108 can, for example, be a server. The processing device 108 can comprise multiple processing devices, such as multiple servers. The processing device 108 can be located in one of the medical facilities 102. The processing device 108 can be provided as a cloud service in the data transmission network 110. The processing device 108 can be located in a data center for medical data processing. The processing device 108 can, for example, comprise a microcontroller or an integrated circuit.The processing device 108 may comprise hardware and / or software elements. The processing device 108 may further comprise a storage unit, which may be implemented as a temporary storage unit, e.g., random access memory (RAM), or as a permanent mass storage unit, e.g., hard disk, USB flash drive, SD card, solid state, or the like.

[0050] The processing device 108 can have one or more interfaces for communication with the imaging devices 106 and the workstations 104, for example via the data transmission network 110.

[0051] The workstations 104 are positioned at a location remote from at least one of the medical imaging modalities 106. This means that a workstation 104 can be implemented as a standalone service center remote from any medical facility 102. Alternatively, a workstation 104 can be located within a medical facility 102 or be an integral part of it. For example, workstation 104A can correspond to an expert / radiology center of medical facility 102A. Consequently, workstation 104A can provide technical / medical expertise as a service to the remote medical facility 102B. Each workstation 104 includes a user interface unit comprising an input and an output unit.The output unit can be configured to graphically visualize generated image data for a skilled operator located and working at workstation 104. The output unit can be configured to graphically visualize a user interface for planning an imaging procedure or corresponding protocol. Furthermore, the output unit can be configured to display a chat window, enabling written or video communication with a local operator at the location of an imaging modality 106. The output unit can also be configured to output audio chat signals. The input unit can be configured to accept user input (from a remote skilled operator) regarding login to at least one imaging modality 106, procedure or protocol planning, e.g.,To adjust a protocol parameter, receive written or audio chat input, or the like. The user interface units can include a screen or display. They can also include a touchscreen, a keyboard, a mouse, or a microphone and speaker.

[0052] The medical imaging system 100 can be configured to perform at least one medical imaging procedure. An exemplary procedure 200 is described below with reference to Fig. 2 described. The process 200 comprises process steps 202-216, which can be carried out at least in part by, for example, the processing device 108.

[0053] In procedure 200, step 202 assigns a respective capability value to each operator who is intended to operate one of the imaging modalities 106, for example, directly on-site or via a remote workstation 104. The respective capability value indicates the operator's proficiency in performing medical imaging procedures with the imaging modality 106. The capability value can indicate multiple capability values ​​or a capability profile of the operator. For example, the capability value can indicate the operator's proficiency in performing a specific medical imaging procedure with a specific imaging modality.

[0054] An operator's skill level can be determined, for example, through tests or examinations they take. These tests can be conducted at a remote workstation (104) or in a training center. Furthermore, an operator's skill level can be determined based on their past medical imaging procedures. For instance, if an operator has performed numerous MRI scans, their skill level for MRI may be correspondingly high or increased. Extensive experience with various MRI imaging modalities can also raise their skill level in this area. Similarly, extensive experience performing medical imaging procedures of specific body regions or organs can increase their skill level accordingly.

[0055] In step 204, data for a medical imaging procedure is collected. This data can be entered into processing unit 108, for example, by a physician treating a patient, as a request for an imaging examination. The data for the medical imaging procedure includes, for example, patient-related data that may be relevant to the examination, such as intolerances to contrast agents, pre-existing conditions, and the patient's current medical status. The patient-related data can also include personal data such as date of birth, name, address, height, and / or weight. Further data can specify, for example, which body region or organ is to be examined and whether there is an initial suspicion of a disease in the patient, as well as more detailed information about this.Furthermore, the data can contain information regarding a required imaging modality, such as the type of imaging modality (e.g., CT, MRI, or X-ray equipment), as well as information about the characteristics of the imaging modality, such as minimum required image resolution, processing speed, real-time capabilities, and the like. The data can also specify a planned time of the imaging procedure, or at least a time window, and / or a planned location, or at least a region. Finally, the data can indicate a predefined requirement value, which specifies the operator requirements for performing the imaging procedure. The requirement value can relate to both the execution of the imaging procedure and the operation of the required imaging modality.The data may therefore contain multiple requirement values ​​or a requirement profile. The requirement value can also be automatically determined from the aforementioned data, for example, using an AI system.

[0056] In step 206, the required skill level or profile for the medical imaging procedure to be performed is compared with the operator's skill level or profile. If an operator can be identified who meets the required skill level or profile and is available at the scheduled time of the imaging procedure, this operator is scheduled to perform the procedure in step 220. However, if no operator can be identified who meets the required skill level or profile and is available at the scheduled time of the imaging procedure, an operator who does not meet the required skill level or profile can still be scheduled to perform the imaging procedure in step 208, provided there is still time for appropriate training before the procedure is performed.

[0057] The assignment of an operator to a medical imaging procedure can be fully automated. It can also be stipulated that each assignment, or at least each assignment where the operator's skill level is below the required level, is submitted to a review body, such as a chief physician, senior physician, or manager, and given the opportunity to reject it. If an assignment is rejected, a new assignment can be sought in step 206 until one is found that is not rejected by the review body.

[0058] In step 210, a training measure can be defined for the assigned operator. The training measure can be determined based on the assigned operator's skill level and the specified requirement level. For example, an operator whose skill level differs only slightly from the requirement level can be assigned to perform the imaging procedure, meaning that a short training measure is sufficient to enable the operator to perform the procedure. The training measure is scheduled to take place and be completed before the medical imaging procedure is performed.

[0059] A combined assessment of an operator's skill set is possible. For example, if an operator has extensive experience in various MRI imaging modalities and has performed numerous medical imaging procedures on different organs or body parts, they may be considered suitable for MRI examinations of a single organ, even if they have not previously performed this combination of procedures. Further training (Step 210) may be helpful in this case.

[0060] In another example, an operator might have extensive experience examining a specific organ or body part, such as the knee, and may have performed many examinations using, for example, a CT scanner. Their experience with MRI scans might be less extensive. Nevertheless, the operator could be assigned an MRI scan of the knee (step 208), and additional training on the operation and specific features of the MRI imaging modality (step 210) could be scheduled.

[0061] The training can be carried out in step 212. For example, the training could be a web-based training course at the operator's remote workstation 104. Successful completion of the web-based training can be automatically reported to the processing device 108. The processing device can then modify, for example, increase, the corresponding experience value for that person.

[0062] If the person was registered for a training course in face-to-face instruction in step 208, the successful participation in this training course can be automatically saved in the processing device 108 and the experience value can be adjusted accordingly.

[0063] Furthermore, the training measure can consist of participating in the medical imaging procedure to be performed as an observer at the remote workstation 104. In this case, two operators can be assigned to the medical imaging procedure to be performed: one operator via steps 208-212, thereby receiving training, and another operator via step 220, who primarily and / or lead the medical imaging procedure.

[0064] In step 214, the user interface of a human-machine interface for imaging modality 106, used to perform the medical imaging procedure, can be configured based on the skill level of the assigned operator. For an operator with a lower skill level, meaning less experience with the imaging modality, additional help texts can be displayed, or rarely used parameters can be set to default values ​​and hidden from the user interface to simplify operation and prevent errors. For an operator with a higher skill level, meaning more experience with the imaging modality, more powerful and complex controls can be offered on the user interface, enabling faster and more efficient operation of the imaging modality.

[0065] After the medical imaging procedure has been performed, the skill score of the assigned operator can be changed in step 216. If, in addition to the lead operator, an operator was also assigned as a spectator, the skill scores of both operators can be changed.

[0066] A dimensionless numerical value can be used as both a capability value and a requirement value. This dimensionless numerical value could, for example, be in the range of 0-100. However, this is just one example. In other examples, the dimensionless numerical value could be in the range of 0-1000 or in the range of 0-10. A numerical value range of 0-100 already offers sufficient differentiation possibilities while still representing a compact and intuitive quantity.

[0067] Fig. Figure 3 illustrates the effect of the capability value in the imaging system 100 between the operators 302, an operational plan 306, training and further education measures 304 and the imaging modalities 106.

[0068] A comparison of operating times of personnel 302, times for further training measures 304 and times for carrying out medical imaging procedures on the imaging modalities 106 is carried out via communication of the capability values ​​or requirement values, which are in the Fig. 3 can be symbolized by means of the % sign. The comparison can be carried out, for example, using processing device 108.

[0069] The skills of operators 302 are periodically updated and evaluated to provide current operator 302 skill profiles. An operator 302's skill profile may, for example, include a corresponding imaging modality-specific skill score for each type of imaging modality or even for each device type within an imaging modality. Furthermore, an operator's skill profile may include a corresponding imaging procedure-specific skill score for each type of imaging procedure, such as procedures for examining specific organs or body parts. During operation of an imaging modality, the modality may provide data indicating the operator's proficiency in using the modality, such as the frequency of errors or the speed at which the imaging modality is operated.This data can be used to increase or decrease the operator's corresponding skill scores.

[0070] When planning a medical imaging procedure, an operator can be sought whose skill level is sufficient to perform the procedure using the imaging modality to be used. Gaps between the required skill level and the operator's skill level can be tolerated within certain limits or closed through appropriate training. For example, if many urgent medical imaging procedures are pending, a larger gap can be tolerated. This gap can be reduced by, for instance, configuring the imaging modality's user interface for less experienced operators. If an operator has significant availability before the scheduled medical imaging procedure, a larger gap can be closed through more extensive training.

[0071] The training measures 304 can be automatically selected based on the skill profiles. Each training measure can be assigned a corresponding skill change value, which can be applied to the operator's skill value after successful completion of the training. For example, if an operator has extensive experience using MRI scanners but very little experience in cardiological examinations, appropriate training in cardiological examinations can be scheduled. This training could, for example, include observing a cardiological examination, which is automatically scheduled taking into account the operator's availability, such as normal working hours, shift work, or absences.In particular, participation via the remotely located workplace 104 allows for flexible planning of participation in examinations and further training measures.

[0072] Although the invention has been illustrated and described in detail by means of exemplary embodiments, the invention is not limited by the disclosed examples and other variations can be derived from them by a person skilled in the art without leaving the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

[1] Computer-implemented method for use in a medical imaging system, wherein the medical imaging system (100) provides at least one remotely operable imaging modality (106) and includes at least one workstation (104) for at least one operator (302) located remotely from the at least one imaging modality (106), the method comprising: - Assigning (202) a respective capability value to each of the at least one operator (302), wherein the respective capability value indicates the operator's (302) capability to perform medical imaging procedures using the at least one imaging modality (106), - Acquisition (204) of data for a medical imaging procedure to be performed using an imaging modality (106) of at least one imaging modality (106), - Assigning (208) an operator (302) of at least one operator (302) to the imaging modality (106) when the capability value assigned to the operator (302) is below a requirement value specified for the medical imaging procedure to be performed, in order to participate in the performance of the medical imaging procedure via the remote workstation (104). [2] The method of claim 1, further comprising: - Determining (210) a further training measure (304) for the assigned operator (302) depending on at least one value from a group of values, wherein the group of values ​​includes the capability value of the assigned operator (302) and the specified requirement value. [3] Method according to claim 2, wherein the further training measure (304) is scheduled prior to the performance of the medical imaging procedure. [4] A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the assignment (202) of a corresponding capability value to each of the at least one operator (302) comprises at least one of: - Performing a test at the remote workplace (104), wherein the test determines the operator's (302) skills in relation to the medical imaging procedure to be performed; - Recording operator results (302) during classroom training; - Analyzing medical imaging procedures performed in the past by the operator (302). [5] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - Setting (214) a user interface associated with the imaging modality of a human-machine interface of the medical imaging system (100) depending on the capability score of the assigned operator (302). [6] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - Changing (216) the capability score depending on an analysis of the operator's performance of the medical imaging procedure (302) from the remote workstation (104). [7] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the capability value comprises several imaging modality-specific capability values, wherein one imaging modality-specific capability value of the several imaging modality-specific capability values ​​indicates the operator's (302) capability to control a specific imaging modality (106). [8] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the capability score comprises several imaging procedure-specific capability scores, wherein an imaging procedure-specific capability score indicates the operator's (302) capability to perform a medical imaging procedure using the imaging modality (106). [9] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the capability value comprises a dimensionless numerical value. [10] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the capability value comprises a dimensionless numerical value in the range of 0 to 100. [11] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the training measure (304) comprises a training measure from a group of training measures, wherein the group of training measures comprises: - a web-based training measure at the remote workplace (104), - participation in the medical imaging procedure to be performed as an observer at the remote workplace (104), and - automatic registration for a further education course in face-to-face instruction. [12] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the assignment of the operator (302) to the imaging modality (106) to participate in the performance of the medical imaging procedure via the remote workstation (104) is further dependent on availability data of the operator (302). [13] Method according to claim 12, wherein the availability data of the operator (302) includes information about normal working hours, shift times and / or absences of the operator (302). [14] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the data for the medical imaging procedure to be performed comprise at least one of the following group of data: - patient-related data, - Data on a required imaging modality (106), - Data about a body region or organ of interest, - Data relating to an initial suspicion of illness in the patient being examined, - current medical status data of the patient to be examined, - Data about a planned time of the imaging procedure, - the specified requirement value. [15] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the specified requirement value is determined from the data for the medical imaging procedure to be performed. [16] Processing device for use in a medical imaging system, wherein the medical imaging system (100) comprises the processing device, at least one remotely operated imaging modality (106) and at least one workstation (104) for at least one operator (302) located away from the at least one imaging modality, wherein the processing device (108) is designed, to assign a respective capability value to each of the at least one operator (302), wherein the respective capability value indicates the operator's (302) ability to perform medical imaging procedures using the at least one imaging modality (106), to collect data for a medical imaging procedure to be performed using an imaging modality (106) of at least one imaging modality (106), to assign an operator (302) to the imaging modality (106) if the capability value assigned to the operator (302) is below a requirement value specified for the medical imaging procedure to be performed, in order to participate in the performance of the medical imaging procedure via the remote workstation (104). [17] Processing device according to claim 16, wherein the processing device (108) is configured to carry out the method according to any one of claims 2-15. [18] Medical imaging system, comprising: - at least one remotely controllable imaging modality (106), - at least one workstation (104) for at least one operator (302) located away from the at least one imaging modality, and - the processing device (108) according to claim 16 or claim 17. [19] Computer program product comprising program elements that cause a processing device (108) of a medical imaging system (100) to perform a method (200), wherein the medical imaging system (100) provides at least one remotely operable imaging modality (106) and comprises at least one workstation (104) for at least one operator (302) located remotely from the at least one imaging modality (106), wherein the method comprises: - Assigning (202) a respective capability value to each of the at least one operator (302), wherein the respective capability value indicates the operator's (302) capability to perform medical imaging procedures using the at least one imaging modality (106), - Acquisition (204) of data for a medical imaging procedure to be performed using an imaging modality (106) of at least one imaging modality (106), - Assigning (208) an operator (302) of at least one operator (302) to the imaging modality (106) when the capability value assigned to the operator (302) is below a requirement value specified for the medical imaging procedure to be performed, in order to participate in the performance of the medical imaging procedure via the remote workstation (104).

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