Low Volume Computed Radiography
Some organizations may view a jump to digital radiography (DR) cautiously in the face of technology limitations and budgetary constraints. For smaller outpatient clinics, rural hospitals, or radiology departments with low volumes, the interim step of computed radiography (CR) is a viable option.
Nearly 60 percent of the images acquired in hospitals come from x-ray. Converting x-ray images to digital media for image capture and storage is a way for radiology departments and imaging centers to enhance workflow efficiency and control long-term cost. CR makes up a significant portion of the radiography equipment on today's market.
KLAS focused research in 2008 on the single-cassette (or single-plate) CR market, as a result of provider demand for feedback on direct user experiences with these systems and vendors. The CR equipment market has expanded as a result of PACS technology and the potentially prohibitive costs associated with DR systems.
Key findings from the 2008 research include:
- The CR market segment's average performance score was 88 out of 100. Overall, CR clients appear pleased with their vendors. Which vendors received the highest functional strength ratings for Cassette/Plate Quality, Console/Tech Software, Image Quality, and Throughput?
- Interfacing and integration to PACS will always remain a challenge due to the nature of CR imaging. Which vendors received the highest ratings from providers for the quality of their interfaces?
- With cost considerations influencing utilization of CR, which vendors were rated highest by healthcare providers in regard to getting their money's worth, implementation being within budget, and support costs being as expected?
KLAS spoke with more than 140 healthcare professionals regarding their low volume CR vendor for this 2008 report. Products qualifying for ranking in this study were Agfa CR 35-X, Carestream (Kodak) DirectView CR 850, FUJIFILEM FCR Carbon, Konica Minolta REGIUS Nano, and Philips PCR Eleva S. Early findings were also included in the 2008 report for Radlink CR Pro.
Data Access:
A complimentary executive summary of the 2008 Single-Cassette CR report is available for the following:
- All healthcare providers with a current Platinum KLAS subscription (summary available via download on the PK reports tab -- Login).
- Each healthcare provider who participated in the study's research (summary delivered via email).