Security aspects of teleradiology between the university centre and outlying hospitals in Tyrol

We assessed a data security system using biometric fingerprint techniques a nd smartcards to control access to a teleradiology system. Clinical cases w ere initially discussed between the referring physician and radiologist in Tyrol using a video-phone. Subsequent correspondence, including the transmi ssion of images between the referring physician and the radiologist, was ca rried out by email using the security system to prevent unauthorized access to patient information. Seventy-eight teleradiology sessions were conducte d using this data security system. Speed and stability of data exchange wer e unaffected by the additional security feature. The average log-on time to the system was 7.8 s. The average training time on how to use the system w as 15 min. The radiologist was able to issue a final patient report using t he system within 1.5 of the initial contact. The data security feature was user-friendly and did not hinder the normal teleradiology consultation.