A NEW Radiology Information System and Digital Imaging System at Doddington and Princess of Wales Community hospitals are set to speed up access to patients images from today. Mike Oldham, Radiology Business Manager, Cambridgeshire Community Services exp

A NEW Radiology Information System and Digital Imaging System at Doddington and

Princess of Wales Community hospitals are set to speed up access to patients' images from today.

Mike Oldham, Radiology Business Manager, Cambridgeshire Community Services

explained: "These new systems enable clinicians in the hospitals to have immediate

electronic access to their patients' images and examination reports, speeding up the

diagnostic process and improving patient care.

"Prior to the new systems being introduced, treatment was often delayed whilst x-rays were developed and transported between different clinicians or departments. At a time when people are often distressed or in pain, anything that speeds up the process will improve the quality of care provided.

"In January 2009 we anticipate extending the system further so that patients' electronic

examination reports can be sent securely to the patient's own GP, to provide timely

information to support diagnosis and treatment.

"Ultimately, we aim to be able to work with colleagues in other parts of the health system to enable the secure transmission of images to, for example, acute hospitals for specialist

assessment or for follow-up appointments in outpatient clinics where this is clinically

required.