Implementing filmless ultrasound: a case study

Several years ago, Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan, considered converting to a filmless radiography system. Enthusiastic but cautious, the hospital looked into the technology to be sure it was appropriate for their institution. With the first phase representing a trial run, choosing the right area for the initial implementation was critical. Ultimately we selected the area that would most benefit from the transition and save the most money along the way. Ultrasound was our first choice, particularly since the hospital has three ultrasound units that are staffed 24 hours a day, and six ultrasound units in a doctor's building across the street. Butterworth was performing 25,000 ultrasound films annually. An additional reason for selecting ultrasound was a high level of interest and support from the hospital's ultrasound radiologists. Enthusiastic about the project this group's support gave the project a good chance for success. The hospital considered different vendors, basing its selection on the radiologists' satisfaction. It was essential that they be satisfied with any system they would eventually use. One criteria was to find a vendor willing to customize their product for the hospital's use. Compatibility with the existing network was also important. One goal at implementation was to be 80 percent filmless after several weeks. Even greater savings than anticipated were realized when the radiologists went 98 percent filmless almost immediately. The successful first phase has laid the groundwork for upcoming phases of the project, which will include transitioning to CT and MRI.