Information technology has changed the face of modern medicine in many ways. Teleradiology, one such field of healthcare delivery has been a significant advancement, which has seen instrumental in providing health access. But what does the future hold for such an technological advance field of medicine?
Dr Hemant Patel, Incoming President, IRIA (Moderator), Dr Arjun Kalyanpur, Chief Radiologist, Teleradiology Solutions, Dr Abhishek Mahajan, Associate Professor, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Dr Sumer Sethi, Founder, DAMS & Telerad Providers Dr Uday Patil, HOD Radiology, Aster Hospital and Narayanan AK, Principal Architect, Philips Healthcare contemplated on the future prospects of teleradiology in India.
Panelists began the discussion by understanding the relevance of teleradiology in a country like India. Teleradiology has raised the bar for radiology practice in the US, but India still lags behind, experts pointed out. They also talked about how the field can help in addressing manpower crunch in healthcare. However, there is a need to gather relevant clinical data in order to integrate teleradiology in India’s healthcare system. Also, there is a need to get clinical, lab and other relevant information integrated in teleradiology, the experts reiterated.
Additionally, multi-disciplinary approaches are necessary to further the growth of teleradiology in India.
Experts also discussed on the regulatory aspect of teleradiology. In the US teleradiology is a highly regulated industry, however, India does not have any regulations. India needs to therefore, built a strong regulatory system for teleradiology. Provisions for tackling legal issues, practice standards, data privacy are the prerequisites in India.
Further on, discussions touched upon the subject of job opportunities that teleradiology can offer. AI can be useful for decision making in teleradiology.
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