The role of teleradiology in emergency radiology provision

Teleradiology has had a major impact in decreasing report turnaround time, and in improving service levels in the emergency setting. Teleradiology in the emergency setting is usually associated with a strong peer review and quality assurance process. It has generated a cadre of specialized generalists, who excel in acute care interpretation. Hence report quality is enhanced. By using the centralized reading room coupled with the night-day model, radiologist productivity is increased and healthcare costs are reduced. Communication levels between clinicians and radiologists remain high, commensurate with on-site radiology. The cons are related to insufficient adherence to regulations, corporatization and predatory practices, which are economic and investor-driven rather than in the interests of patient care. Insufficient clinical history and large imaging datasets present a challenge.