Large datasets, logistics, sharing and workflow in screening.

Large datasets, logistics, sharing and workflow in screening. Br J Radiol. 2018 Feb 22;:20170751 Authors: Cook TS Abstract Cancer screening initiatives exist around the world for different malignancies, most frequently breast, colorectal, and cervical cancer. A number of cancer registries exist to collect relevant data, but while these data may include imaging findings, they rarely, if ever, include actual images. Additionally, the data submitted to the registry are usually correlated with eventual cancer diagnoses and patient outcomes, rather than used with the individual's future screenings. Developing screening programs that allow for images to be submitted to a central location in addition to patient meta-data and used for comparison to future screening exams would be very valuable in increasing access to care and ensuring that individuals are effectively screened from year to year. It would also change the way imaging results and additional patient data are correlated to eventual outcomes. However, it introduces logistical challenges surrounding secure storage and transmission of data to subsequent screening sites. In addition, in the absence of standardized protocols for screening, comparing current and prior imaging, especially from different equipment, can be challenging. Implementing a large-scale screening program with an image-enriched screening registry-effectively, an image-enriched, electronic screening record-also requ...
Source: The British Journal of Radiology - Category: Radiology Authors: Tags: Br J Radiol Source Type: research