Diagnostic Imaging Report Barcode for Secure Image Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for distributing diagnostic images associated with reports face challenges such as limited access, security risks, and inefficiencies in accessing images, particularly through physical media or secure online portals, where URLs, usernames, and passwords can be lost or mistyped, and access is controlled by the imaging facility rather than the patient or physician.
Innovation Solution
A system where a DICOM server generates a diagnostic imaging report with a barcode containing a shortened URL to stored diagnostic images, allowing a scanning device to access and display the images by scanning the barcode, providing secure and convenient access without the need for ancillary distribution of images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If diagnostic images are distributed on portable digital recording mediums (CD/DVD) or in hardcopy format, then security risk of unauthorized access is reduced, but access convenience deteriorates and physical possession is required
Solution Approach 1:
A secure online portal is introduced as an intermediary between the diagnostic images and the authorized users. The portal uses barcode technology as a mediator to link the hardcopy report to the electronic images, allowing users to access images remotely without physical possession of media while maintaining security through controlled authentication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical media distribution (CDs, DVDs, film prints) with an electronic access system. Instead of requiring physical transfer and possession of image carriers, users access images through a web-based portal using barcode scanning, eliminating the need for physical media handling while maintaining secure access control.
2Ease of operation
If secure online portal with URL, username and password is used, then access convenience is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to frequent loss or mistyping of credentials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the authentication mechanism from the traditional URL/password system. Instead of requiring users to remember and manually enter complex credentials, the system uses barcode scanning to automatically retrieve access information. The barcode contains or links to the authentication data, eliminating the need for users to manually handle sensitive credentials while maintaining secure access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of the access credentials in the form of a barcode printed on the hardcopy report. This barcode serves as a reliable, error-free representation of the access information that can be scanned automatically, replacing the prone-to-error manual entry of URLs and passwords while maintaining the security of the access control system.
3Reliability
If conventional secure online portal is used, then security is maintained, but device complexity increases due to controlled access requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the secure portal system universal by designing it to work with any device capable of scanning barcodes and accessing web content. The system serves multiple functions: it provides secure access control, eliminates the need for manual credential entry, and works across different platforms (mobile phones, tablets, computers). The barcode standard itself is universal, allowing integration with existing devices without requiring specialized hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for distributing and accessing diagnostic images associated with a diagnostic imaging report are disclosed. A DICOM server is configured to receive diagnostic images and diagnostic information from an imaging facility based on a diagnostic imaging study. The received diagnostic images and diagnostic information are stored at a DICOM storage of the server. A diagnostic imaging report is generated based on diagnostic report input parameters related to the received diagnostic images and the diagnostic information. The generated diagnostic imaging report includes a barcode containing an embedded file path to one or more of the received diagnostic images.