Patients benefit from digital revamp
Empangeni hospital boasts sophisticated hi-tech radiology equipment
ZULULAND patients now have access to world class digital radiology equipment at the Life Empangeni Garden Clinic – the first of its kind on the north coast.
Spearheaded by Dr CI Stoyanov Radiological Services Inc, which is based at the local hospital, the practice has become the first, smaller-size radiology clinic in SA to implement the sophisticated system.
The hi-tech digital infrastructure revolutionises the way radiologists and doctors work by making images and reports accessible by the doctor anywhere, anytime.
A sophisticated backup infrastructure – even in the event of a disaster – ensures that patients’ images will be safely stored for future reference.
For patients, this means shorter waiting times and rapid dissemination of radiology reports to their referring doctors.
From the casualty doctor to the surgeon in theatre, scans can be checked on monitors installed throughout the hospital or even in the comfort of the doctor’s home.
In an exclusive interview with the Zululand Observer, radiologist Dr Christian Stoyanov said the journey to digitalisation was essential to introduce an integrated workflow and speed up diagnostic processes.
‘I would like to acknowledge the role of Life Empangeni Garden Clinic for their support and installation of the hospital network to facilitate the distribution of images,’ he said.
‘There is also Wi-fi throughout the hospital and the network links radiology to theatre, casualty and other wards.
‘The old conventional radiography system had many limitations and is being phased out worldwide. This integration is critical when it comes to handling patient information, adequate reporting, viewing old images and reports and analysing the patient’s condition in its integrity,’ Dr Stoyanov added.
Treatment
Hospital Manager Judy van Zyl said doctors were excited about the technology as they could now access results quicker and decide on treatment options speedily.
‘Dr CI Stoyanov Radiological Services Inc was the initiator and pushed this sophisticated system. We have been planning this roll-out for about two years,’ said Van Zyl.
‘Through the installation of the network, doctors can now use computers at the patient’s bedside and discuss results with them immediately. The orthopaedic surgeons are also viewing their images on their computers in their offices and in theatre as they plan for surgery.’
The contemporary, top-of-the-range equipment was imported from the US and supplied by radiology information systems provider, Pro Med Computer Services.
Dr Stoyanov said the practice was in the process of training referring doctors on the new system and bringing the hospital work stations up to full utilisation.
