Radiology and The Telemedicine Frontier: Employment Beyond Borders?

eleradiology is a growing segment of the radiology workforce. As the practice of telemedicine expands, in general, radiology continues to be the vanguard of technological innovations. But is it for real?

There has been a shifting trend in the number of those seeking part-time radiology work. Given the large call responsibilities the recruitment and retention of full time radiologists has become increasingly difficult as the demographics of trainees has changed.

With the increasing time demands, patient volumes, budget constraints, metrics and mandates, and red tape hoops and hurdles of all manner, it’s hardly surprising that practicing as a full-time radiologist may feel more like juggling in a three ring circus than providing patient care and trained expertise.

The lack of part-time options or flexibility in scheduling is one of the most commonly cited factors in the decision of a growing number of radiologists to shift to teleradiology positions.

Telemedicine can be an appealing alternative for those looking for employment with more flexibility and that enables a greater work-life balance than some of the more traditional routes.

Hospitals increasingly utilizing video links and online consultations with radiologists for in-depth advice. Radiologists receive a digital image to interpret and can send back a diagnosis all within minutes, allowing them to work remotely, at least to some extent.

A growing number of radiology groups are now beginning to provide teleradiology services. Even across state lines and potentially, international borders.

Of course, this raises some hairy legal and regulatory issues–not to mention Medicare reimbursement and liability questions.

The ARC’s current policy on the matter requires physicians to be licensed in the state where the image is generated (also, as we’re not talking teleportation, yet, the patient’s location) and the state where the image is read.

There are some advocates, however, pushing for legislative changes to facilitate the growth of teleradiology and make it easier for radiologists to obtain such work.

There are also those who support the novel idea of a national medical licence. You might be thinking, yeah, when pigs fly…but, hey, who knows?

Regardless, teleradiology may be an ideal path for some and may offer exciting new possibilities. Or, perhaps, it’s something to keep an eye on, at least. There may be interesting developments ahead.