DICOM Image Retrieval via QR Code Authentication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing process of obtaining medical images is time-consuming, inefficient, and requires specialized software to view DICOM format images, which is not readily available on mobile devices, complicating user access and retrieval.
Innovation Solution
A method involving scanning a scannable graphic, such as a QR code, to capture DICOM tag data, allowing retrieval and sharing of medical images across storage systems using common devices and applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users request medical images through the traditional physician-office staff process, then the images can be obtained with proper authentication and format, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables patients to independently request and receive their own medical images by scanning a QR code and providing authentication information through a mobile device, eliminating the need to go through physicians and office staff. The patient directly initiates the image retrieval process and receives images via email or mobile device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-generates QR codes containing patient identification and authentication information that can be scanned at any time. The authentication credentials and image retrieval pathways are prepared in advance, allowing immediate image access without waiting for office staff processing.
2Ease of manufacture
If medical images are provided on CD or DVD, then the images can be delivered physically, but specialized DICOM viewer software is needed which is not readily available on mobile devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system delivers medical images in multiple universal formats (DICOM, JPEG, PNG, PDF) that can be viewed on any device including mobile phones, tablets, and computers without requiring specialized DICOM viewer software. The system automatically provides images in formats compatible with general-purpose viewing applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies of medical images that can be transmitted electronically via email or mobile device, replacing the need for physical CD or DVD media. These digital copies maintain diagnostic quality while being accessible on standard devices through common image viewing applications.
3Reliability
If the request process involves multiple steps through physician and office staff, then proper authentication can be ensured, but the process becomes complicated and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a QR code as an intermediary that encapsulates patient identification and authentication information. Scanning the QR code automatically populates the request form with verified patient data, eliminating manual data entry and reducing errors while maintaining security through the structured authentication process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback during the image request process, including confirmation of patient identity, status of image retrieval, and notification when images are ready for delivery. This automated feedback loop ensures proper authentication while guiding the patient through the simplified process without requiring multiple manual verification steps.
Data Source
AI summary
The method of obtaining DICOM files may comprise receiving, by a processor, scanning data of a scannable graphic associated with an item, wherein the scannable graphic is associated with DICOM tag data; extracting, by the processor, the DICOM tag data from the scanning data; determining, by the processor, that the DICOM tag data is associated with a first DICOM file; identifying, by the processor, a user of the first DICOM file; retrieving, by the processor, the first DICOM file; searching, by the processor, for other DICOM files that are associated with at least one of the user or the first DICOM file; retrieving, by the processor, the other DICOM files; and sending, by the processor and to the user, the first DICOM file and the other DICOM files.