Identifying and characterizing system issues of health information technology in medical imaging as a basis for recommendations

Abstract

Medical imaging health information technology systems, such as Radiology Information Systems and Picture Archiving and Communication Systems were introduced to improve efficiency. Although they have the potential to improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes, when poorly designed, implemented or managed, they can pose substantial risks to patient safety and organizational efficiency, which may offset the intended benefits. This study used the method of thematic analysis, which provided information about system issues related to health information technology. System issues, including system error, system malfunction or failure, system design, system crash, system functionality, voice recognition technology, launching of new systems, and system integration accounted for 21% of the 436 HIT incidents. Even when these issues do not harm patients, they often cause delays, inconvenience, and inefficiencies. Obtaining the right system, proper and careful system implementation, and immediate back-up systems can improve the safety and quality of care in medical imaging.