Title | Image Sharing Technologies and Reduction of Imaging Utilization: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2015 |
Authors | Vest JR, Jung H-Y, Ostrovsky A, Das LTanmoy, McGinty GB |
Journal | J Am Coll Radiol |
Volume | 12 |
Issue | 12 Pt B |
Pagination | 1371-1379.e3 |
Date Published | 2015 Dec |
ISSN | 1558-349X |
Keywords | Diagnostic Imaging, Efficiency, Organizational, Electronic Health Records, Hospital Shared Services, Internationality, Medical Overuse, Radiology Information Systems, Utilization Review |
Abstract | INTRODUCTION: Image sharing technologies may reduce unneeded imaging by improving provider access to imaging information. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to summarize the impact of image sharing technologies on patient imaging utilization. METHODS: Quantitative evaluations of the effects of PACS, regional image exchange networks, interoperable electronic heath records, tools for importing physical media, and health information exchange systems on utilization were identified through a systematic review of the published and gray English-language literature (2004-2014). Outcomes, standard effect sizes (ESs), settings, technology, populations, and risk of bias were abstracted from each study. The impact of image sharing technologies was summarized with random-effects meta-analysis and meta-regression models. RESULTS: A total of 17 articles were included in the review, with a total of 42 different studies. Image sharing technology was associated with a significant decrease in repeat imaging (pooled effect size [ES] = -0.17; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [-0.25, -0.09]; P < .001). However, image sharing technology was associated with a significant increase in any imaging utilization (pooled ES = 0.20; 95% CI = [0.07, 0.32]; P = .002). For all outcomes combined, image sharing technology was not associated with utilization. Most studies were at risk for bias. CONCLUSIONS: Image sharing technology was associated with reductions in repeat and unnecessary imaging, in both the overall literature and the most-rigorous studies. Stronger evidence is needed to further explore the role of specific technologies and their potential impact on various modalities, patient populations, and settings. |
DOI | 10.1016/j.jacr.2015.09.014 |
Alternate Journal | J Am Coll Radiol |
PubMed ID | 26614882 |
PubMed Central ID | PMC4730956 |
Grant List | T32 AG023482 / AG / NIA NIH HHS / United States |
Image Sharing Technologies and Reduction of Imaging Utilization: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Submitted by job2075 on September 11, 2018 - 4:25pm
Category:
Faculty Publication