REMOTE ULTRASOUND USING COOPERATIVE VIDEO - A FIELD-STUDY

In this ultrasound held study, patients were examined by a technologis t in a separate room from the radiologist. Two-way audio and the NTSC video signal from the ultrasound probe were provided to the remote rad iologist. Data were collected using observation, surveys, and intervie ws. Of particular interest was how often the radiologists felt it clin ically necessary to walk to the examination room and interact directly with the patient, indicating a failure of the technology. The system was judged viable with no cases requiring hands-on viewing during the last 3 weeks of the 5-week study. Based on this experience, such video technology has been purchased and is currently in use in the clinic. Similar pilot studies are recommended during introduction of remote co nsultation facilities to improve technology interaction, develop new o rganizational procedures, and insure minimal interpersonal conflicts.