Opinion: a prototype for a computerized national mammography registry and tracking system using telecommunications...

In this report, we analyze the feasability and discuss the potential benefits of using currently available technology for the wide-area registration and tracking of mammography patients. In our prototype, three dissimilar computer systems transmitted mammographic data (demographics and the results of mammograms) in a standardized format to a central data repository. Two of the three systems were dedicated computerized mammography systems and one was a general-purpose radiology information system. High-speed modems and the Internet were used to connect with the central repository, which could be queried in real time by remote users. Our results indicated that a busy mammography practice, using the slowest transmission method we tested (14-kilobaud modem), could transmit several days of mammographic data to a central repository in a matter of minutes. To implement systems that provide nation-wide mammographic tracking and follow up, more in-depth planning, development, and testing are necessary.