In a few other instances, we may actually increase the dose slightly, but to offset the potential need to have to call a patient back for a retake and a full additional exposure. It’s much better to assess the situation the first time properly and increase the dose a little bit if necessary than to have the patient come back another time.
Thirdly, utilizing technological improvements is paramount. That’s why we decided to implement SafeCT®, a universal 3D iterative image reconstruction system from
Medic Vision that enables substantial signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) increase of CT images acquired on conventional scanners, regardless of exposure parameters.
HRG uses two scanners that send images to the SafeCT and then to the PACS for radiologists to read. It’s important to have radiologists who are willing to examine each and every protocol and are confident to share feedback and concerns to further improve the experience and safety for patients and staff.
The solution has also afforded us the ability to purchase only one product to service all of our existing CT scanners and avoid retrofitting them. That solution equated to a cost savings of about 50 percent and it was less than the cost to upgrade one of the existing scanners.
The advanced technology achieves low dose images at the high quality that is acceptable for our 35 radiologists on staff who perform twelve-thousand scans annually. The goal is not to increase patient volume simply because the facility is conscientious about low dose, but many patients do refer others to the facility because of that. Adopting a patient dose reduction program needs several key pieces to work successfully. The dose reduction software is one of those key pieces.
For any facility approaching dose reduction, it will take commitment, buy-in and diligence, but it is worth the effort for all involved. Our results speak for themselves. Employing a combination of best practices maintains HRG as a leading reputable provider of imaging services in its region.
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