Overcoming Imaging Silos: The Journey to Unified Image Access at MetroHealth
In a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, the ability to access and share imaging data seamlessly across various systems and specialties is crucial for providing high-quality patient care. At MetroHealth in Cleveland, clinical and technology leaders have been working towards this goal with a focus on ensuring that any image and its accompanying report are readily available to all involved in the patient’s care – including the patients themselves.
Dr. David Kaelber, Chief Health Informatics Officer at MetroHealth, highlighted the importance of breaking down imaging silos and establishing a unified approach to image management. The health system’s journey began with the implementation of a vendor-neutral archive and a universal viewer, enabling easier access to images and reports across different departments and specialties.
Standardizing Processes for Enhanced Collaboration
With the proliferation of imaging orders and the complexity of IT systems, MetroHealth recognized the need for standardization and governance to streamline image sharing. A steering committee was formed to oversee the integration of imaging data and reports, setting priorities and enabling collaboration among care teams.
Today, MetroHealth boasts millions of readily accessible images from seven different departments within its imaging platform, with patients also able to access their images through the Epic MyChart portal. The implementation of a vendor-neutral archive and universal viewer has facilitated seamless integration with the electronic health record, ensuring that images are easily accessible to all authorized users.
Empowering Patients with Image Access
One of the key achievements at MetroHealth has been the integration of imaging data into the personal health record, allowing patients to view their images and reports through the patient portal. This initiative has not only enhanced patient engagement but has also improved the overall quality of care delivery and decision-making.
Dr. Eman Jammali, a clinical informatics fellow at MetroHealth, emphasized the positive impact of accessible imaging data on clinical decision support and patient experience. By enabling providers and patients to view images remotely, MetroHealth has transformed the way care is delivered and managed, leading to improved outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Imaging Harmonization
As MetroHealth continues its journey towards overcoming imaging silos and enhancing image access, the focus remains on promoting interoperability and collaboration among healthcare providers and patients. The lessons learned from integrating imaging data can serve as a blueprint for driving innovation and efficiency in healthcare delivery.
Join Dr. Kaelber and Dr. Jammali at HIMSS25 in Las Vegas as they share their insights on the journey to imaging harmony and the transformative impact of unified image access on patient care.
Mike Miliard, Executive Editor of Healthcare IT News
Email: mike.miliard@himssmedia.com
Healthcare IT News is a HIMSS publication.
