Introduction This three-part blog series outlines RANZCR's strategic vision for advancing clinical radiology in the digital health era by advocating for the importance of interoperability for patient-centred care and collaboration across the healthcare system. By laying out the challenges, solutions, and future opportunities, it aims to inform and inspire action among healthcare professionals and stakeholders.
In today's evolving healthcare landscape, the integration of digital health technologies has become crucial for delivering high-quality, patient-centred care. At the forefront of this digital transformation is clinical radiology, a discipline that has consistently led the adoption of innovative technologies over the past four decades. However, as we move towards a more interconnected and interoperable healthcare system, the challenges and opportunities facing clinical radiology are more significant than ever.
The Emerging Digital Health System Digital health is reshaping how healthcare is delivered in Australia and New Zealand, with a growing emphasis on creating seamless, safe, and secure systems that allow for the unimpeded flow of high-quality data. Interoperability is the ability of different information systems to communicate and exchange data effectively. This is essential for realising the full potential of digital health. For clinical radiology, this means breaking down the silos that currently exist within healthcare, ensuring that radiological data can be shared across different platforms and providers.
One of the key challenges in achieving this vision is the lack of a standardised terminology for radiology procedures. Without a common language, the integration of Radiology Information Systems (RIS) and Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) with other healthcare applications remains fragmented. To address this, RANZCR is developing an Australian “Radiology Referral Set” (RRS), which will serve as the foundation for other digital health initiatives, including efficient access to images and clinical decision support.
Why Interoperability Matters Interoperability is about improving patient care. When different systems can communicate effectively, healthcare providers have access to the complete picture of a patient’s medical history, allowing for more informed decision-making. For radiologists, this means being able to access prior images and reports regardless of where they were obtained, reducing the need for unnecessary repeat tests, and ensuring that patients receive the right test at the right time. However, achieving true interoperability requires more than just technology. It demands a coordinated effort across the healthcare sector, with a shared vision and commitment from all stakeholders. RANZCR is a key partner, working closely with referrers, patients, and other healthcare providers to co-design workflows that enable interoperability and streamline clinical work.
In the next instalment of this blog series, we will delve deeper into the specific projects and initiatives that RANZCR is either spearheading or a major contributor to, to bring this vision to life. We will explore the development of the Radiology Referral Set and its role as the cornerstone of a more integrated and patient-centred digital health system.
To learn more and dive deeper into the future of digital health and radiology, attend the Stars aligning on interoperability' session at the RANZCR ASM 2024 in Perth. Join us on Saturday, 19 October from 10:30-12.30pm. Register here today.
Additionally, you can explore RANZCR's Digital Health white paper, "Towards Interoperability: Clinical Radiology Forging the Path Ahead", by accessing it here. (worth list NZ paper too? Towards Interoperability in Aotearoa New Zealand: Clinical Radiology Forging the Path Ahead