Radiology, Mobile Devices, and Internet of Things (IoT)

Radiology by its nature is intricately connected to the Internet and is at the forefront of technology in medicine. The past few years have seen a dramatic rise in Internet-based technology in healthcare, with imaging as a core application. Numerous Internet-based applications and technologies have made forays into medicine, and for radiology it is more seamless than in other clinical specialties. Many applications in the practice of radiology are Internet based and more applications are being added every day. Introduction of mobile devices and their integration into imaging workflow has reinforced the role played by the Internet in radiology. Due to the rapid proliferation of wearable devices and smartphones, IoT-enabled technology is evolving healthcare from conventional hub-based systems to more personalized healthcare systems. This article briefly discusses how the IoT plays a useful role in daily imaging workflow and current and potential future applications, how mobile devices can be integrated into radiology workflows, and the impact of the IoT on resident and medical student education, research, and patient engagement in radiology.