Streamlining Radiology Workflows Through the Development and Deployment of Automated Microservices

Area of Science:

• Radiology Informatics
• Software Engineering
• Health IT

Background:

• Radiology workflows involve numerous routine tasks that can be time-consuming.
• Automation of these tasks can lead to significant improvements in efficiency and accuracy.
• Microservices architecture offers a modular approach to software development suitable for specialized tasks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and deployment of microservices in a tertiary cancer center's radiology department.
• To demonstrate how microservices can automate routine tasks and save time for radiologists and staff.
• To outline the process and considerations for developing and implementing microservices in a clinical setting.

Main Methods:

• Development of independently deployable microservices focusing on specific functions.
• Integration with existing systems like Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) and Radiology Information Systems (RIS).
• Iterative development process: problem identification, API connection, data collection, prototyping, deployment, feedback, refinement, and production.

Main Results:

• Successful deployment of microservices for automated shift emails, fellow rotation notifications, outside examination alerts, and report template population.
• Substantial time savings achieved for radiologists and administrative staff.
• Demonstrated feasibility of microservices in enhancing radiology workflow efficiency.

Conclusions:

• Microservices architecture can significantly optimize radiology workflows through automation.
• Key considerations for successful implementation include multidisciplinary collaboration, interoperability, security, and privacy.
• The development process emphasizes iterative refinement and continuous improvement.