A new mammography module for the Kodak Carestream Radiology Information System has helped to improve mammography screening administration in three of Denmark’s five regions by ensuring images are double-checked.
The new mammography module, introduced earlier this year, is now used by 60% of Denmark’s mammography screening service.
The new system means that the Danish screening centres now comply with European guidelines stipulating that images must be independently read by two radiologists. The module provides double blind reading functionality to the three Danish regions.
Development work on the module was begun by Ringsted Sygehus in the Sjaelland Region, following a successful bid for government funding for the project.
Dr Nikolaj Borg Mogensen, chief mammography radiologist for the Sjælland Region, said: I am thrilled about the specific development of the RIS mammography module and double blind reading, as it perfectly configures to our workflow.”
Carestream Health worked closely with radiologists and administration personnel at Ringsted Sygehus to develop unique mammography RIS applications, including the double blind reading functionality and customised order entry.
As well as the Sjaelland region, the mammography screening module has also been installed in centres in the Hovedstaden region and the Midtjylland region.
Phase two of the project is currently in progress and scheduled for delivery later this month.
The second phase involves development of a “Patient Portal”, which will allow women to schedule mammography appointments online, with the RIS automatically updating the new appointment details.
“The strategy of the Danish Government is for full mammography screening to be available across the country by the end of 2008 and our new RIS module will help to improve administration for radiologists and patients alike,” said Martina Linke, business development manager for mammography solutions at Carestream Health..
“The initiation of such a development to improve administration for mammography screening reinforces how Denmark is forging ahead in terms of the deployment of information systems, electronic records and digital workflow,” she added.
This development is also proving of interest to the Icelandic Cancer Society, where Carestream Health won a mammography screening order in December 2007.
In Iceland women are given the opportunity to participate in the programme rather than directly invited, with the onus on them to instigate an appointment.
Dr Mogensen said: “The forthcoming web module where women can change their scheduled times over the internet will also increase our performance.”
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