Proposed multi-modality network to support image acquisition at remote sites

There is a growing tendency for planners to permit non-radiologists to install isolated radiographic facilities with fluoroscopy in clinical specialty areas. These dedicated facilities are thereby frequently removed from support by radiology. Examples include endoscopy, urology, pulmonology, cardiology, surgery, intensive care, and orthopedics. A multi-modality network tying these remote sites to radiology can restore radiological support. Radiologists can participate in image acquisition procedures even though the procedures are no longer performed in the radiology department. A network also provides the isolated facility with technical support (laser printing, mass storage, etc.) that cannot be economically duplicated for each separate specialty site. A clinical model emphasizing the role of electronic networks in supporting image acquisition (in addition to image display) is undergoing the first phase of implementation at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) in Durham, North Carolina. The planned multi-modality network uses endoscopy as the acquisition model. Both the VAMC network and its extension to the sophisticated endoscopy suite at nearby Duke University Medical Center will be described.