SIIM: WHIA, SIIM join to bring imaging to underserved areas
The Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM) has partnered with the World Health Imaging Alliance (WHIA) to deliver sustainable diagnostic digital imaging systems to developing communities across the globe. The announcement was made during the 2009 SIIM meeting in Charlotte, N.C.
Former SIIM board member George Bowers will serve as liaison to WHIA as the two groups identify specific initiatives on which to work together.
"According to the World Health Organization, two thirds of the world's population has little or no access to basic diagnostic x-ray services. WHIA's vision is to facilitate the deployment of these life saving digital medical imaging systems to hospitals, health clinics and other medical facilities in underserved communities. With the assistance of SIIM, we are one step closer to making this vision a reality," said WHIA's CEO Ivy Walker.
WHIA helps to coordinate the funding, deployment, training, servicing, and technology research necessary to deliver WHIS-RAD digital x-ray systems in the areas of greatest need.
Each system includes a CR system, workstation with optional viewing stations, as well as next generation functionality through the integration of the WHIA box. This add-on module is the first step in allowing for image and data storage capabilities via hosted PACS, electronic archiving and retrieval; connection to high speed transmission networks enabling teleradioaolgy, consultation and oversight; as well as utilization documentation and tracking.
"The diagnostic imaging technology needed to save lives exists and is proven. Together, WHIA and SIIM can provide support to WHIA sites in underserved communities and make a real impact in a tremendous number of lives around the world," said Walker.
Former SIIM board member George Bowers will serve as liaison to WHIA as the two groups identify specific initiatives on which to work together.
"According to the World Health Organization, two thirds of the world's population has little or no access to basic diagnostic x-ray services. WHIA's vision is to facilitate the deployment of these life saving digital medical imaging systems to hospitals, health clinics and other medical facilities in underserved communities. With the assistance of SIIM, we are one step closer to making this vision a reality," said WHIA's CEO Ivy Walker.
WHIA helps to coordinate the funding, deployment, training, servicing, and technology research necessary to deliver WHIS-RAD digital x-ray systems in the areas of greatest need.
Each system includes a CR system, workstation with optional viewing stations, as well as next generation functionality through the integration of the WHIA box. This add-on module is the first step in allowing for image and data storage capabilities via hosted PACS, electronic archiving and retrieval; connection to high speed transmission networks enabling teleradioaolgy, consultation and oversight; as well as utilization documentation and tracking.
"The diagnostic imaging technology needed to save lives exists and is proven. Together, WHIA and SIIM can provide support to WHIA sites in underserved communities and make a real impact in a tremendous number of lives around the world," said Walker.