Reliability, efficiency key in wireless DR comparison
Wireless technology for digital x-ray is resulting in increased efficiency in patient throughput, according to a report from Orem, Utah-based market research firm KLAS.
The report, titled “Digital X-Ray Performance 2013: Impact of a Wireless Workflow,” indicates the benefits of wireless are made possible due to the reliability and high image quality of wireless systems.
Most of the 81 providers surveyed for the report said they were satisfied with the battery life of their wireless system, though they have to be vigilant about charging, according to the report’s executive summary.
Reliability is a key differentiator for providers, whose ratings indicated some vendors offered more durable and easy-to-use plates. Carestream and Philips wireless detectors were the top rated overall, bolstered by high reliability scores, while GE Healthcare had the weakest reliability of the vendors included in the study.
Providers demonstrated a fear of dropping the expensive wireless detectors, some even going as far as to not let students use them, but few have actually dropped and broken one, according to the executive summary. Most providers are not taking advantage of the ability to swap detectors with a mobile unit or another wireless room, but they reported they like having the option and that it is easy to do.
The report also suggests that reducing dose could be the goal for vendors, as none were considered a strong leader in this area.
Evan joined TriMed in 2011, writing primarily for Health Imaging. Prior to diving into medical journalism, Evan worked for the Nine Network of Public Media in St. Louis. He also has worked in public relations and education. Evan studied journalism at the University of Missouri, with an emphasis on broadcast media.