GOALS, REQUIREMENTS AND PREREQUISITES FOR TELERADIOLOGY - AN UPDATE

Specific radiological requirements have to be considered for the reali zation of telemedicine. In this article the goals and requirements for an extensive introduction of teleradiology will be defined from the r adiological user's point of view. Necessary medical, legal and profess ional prerequisites for teleradiology are presented. Essential require ments, such as data security, maintenance of personal rights and stand ardization, must be realized. Application-specific requirements, e. g. quality and extent of teleradiological functions, as well as technolo gical alternatives, are discussed. Each project must be carefully plan ned in relation to one's own needs, extent of functions and system sel ection. Topics, such as acknowledgement of electronic documentation, r eimbursement of teleradiology and liability, must be clarified. Legal advice and the observance of quality guidelines are recommended.