Anand S. Patel MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Wyatt Michael Tellis PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Officer, EyePACS, LLC

Mary Torosyan, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

David E. Avrin MD, PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Stockholder, Amirsys, Inc Consultant, Amirsys, Inc

Ronald L. Arenson MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

A patient controlled image-based ePHR, such as ISN, is feasible and valuable in modern patient centered healthcare, with patients and physicians reporting high satisfaction.

Medicare expenditure on imaging has nearly doubled from $6.5B in the year 2000 to $11.7B in 2009. At least 10-20% of these costs are due to duplicate exams, often from inaccessibility of prior studies during the transfer of care between institutions. In response, the RSNA and NIBIB launched the Image Share Network (ISN). ISN aims to improve efficiency, safety, and empower patients with direct control of their exams via a cloud based electronic personal health record (ePHR). As 1 of 5 pilot sites, we present our experience with enrollment and patient/physician survey results.

Enrollment began in August 2011 while patients were obtaining a study CD, or waiting to undergo their exam. A survey was provided to patients (as well as one to give their referring physicians) to gauge their ISN experience. As of March 2013, 892 patients were enrolled (557 were provided surveys). 154 patients and 81 physicians returned surveys. 93% of patients reported using a computer or the internet for social media/purchases at least weekly. 95% of patients and physicians expressed the need for a patient controlled ePHR, and the ability to view images in a short period of time. 82% of patients and 89% of physicians were either satisfied or very satisfied with ISN in terms of its ease of use and privacy. 33% of patients disagree, strongly disagree, or were neutral that health record privacy is important.

Patients and physicians report high satisfaction, although some stated that the online registration process and web interface could be improved. Physician use is difficult to gauge since most patients have a referring physician from the same institution already using the medical center’s own online image viewer. A significant number of patients, perhaps more than expected, did not express importance in maintaining privacy of their health records. Underlying selection bias is considered given a relative homogenous computer literate cohort who already believed in the utility of patient controlled ePHRs.

Patel, A, Tellis, W, Torosyan, M, Avrin, D, Arenson, R, The RSNA Image Share Network: 20 Month Follow-up Results from a Pilot Site.  Radiological Society of North America 2013 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, December 1 - December 6, 2013 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2013/13020565.html