Business Survey on Digital Radiography

A survey of radiologists, administrators, and technologists has revealed that many hospitals plan to purchase digital radiography (DR) systems and most are expecting to install the new technology within the next two years. The survey was conducted by Eastman Kodak Company (Rochester, NY, USA) at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) in 2000.

Although U.S. participants accounted for 68% of the total audience polled in the survey, the remaining participants represented more than 20 other countries. The 252 responders answered questions about selection factors, technology benefits, and plans to purchase DR systems. Their replies indicate that many facilities have aging x-ray film equipment that is a target for newer technologies. More than 70% reported having x-ray equipment that is six or more years old.

Almost half of all respondents plan to purchase a DR system, and more than 60% of purchasers plan to order a system within the next two years. The most important factors in choosing a DR system include (in order of importance) service and support, state-of-the-art technology, a full portfolio of products and features, and a vendor's reputation. Respondents expect the most important benefits of DR to be (in order of importance) improved workflow, immediate access to images, fewer retakes, automatic distribution of images, and improved image manipulation. Half of all respondents reported they already have PACS components or a full PACS.

"The installation of DR systems is a vital step toward a digital radiology department, along with PACS, computed tomography, and other digital imaging technologies,” said Marianne Doktor, Kodak's worldwide category manager for DR.




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