Technology in the medical industry continues to advance. Here is why digital pathology is such an important future medical technology.
Looking to stay on top of the evolution of technology in the medical field? One area experiencing continued growth is digital pathology. As these services expand, they are providing incredible benefits to patients and providers alike.
Digital pathology identifies diseases like cancer in a more streamlined manner. This leads to expedited treatment and care.
If you are ready to learn more about this future medical technology, keep reading. Listed below are some of the most important things to know!
The Basics
Digital pathology is sometimes called virtual microscopy. It pertains to converting information from glass pathology slides to digital slides.
Going digital opens up possibilities for physicians. Traditional pathology analyzes slides manually with a microscope. With digital pathology, physicians can apply computer algorithms to analyze in many ways.
These algorithms count and analyze the structures within cells. They also can assess the grade or severity of tumors. Computer algorithms help to improve accuracy and reduce unavoidable human error.
With these advancements, the field will be better equipped to manage workloads. This is important, as the number of pathologists is expected to decrease.
Using these digital services can also save both time and money.
Decrease Referral Time
A large benefit of this future medical technology is the impact on referral times. Due to budget cuts, patient increases, and other factors, average wait times are rising.
Using digital pathology provides a solution to this. Samples taken in one location can be sent to other doctors or hospitals for analysis.
Increase Capacity
This technology also expands the capacity for clinics and physicians to assess conditions. Using computer algorithms can help manage workloads.
A digital system also allows physicians to have easy access to prior records. This includes tissue samples and prior assessments. This means doctors have valuable extra information.
The extra information could be the difference between a correct and incorrect diagnosis.
Opens Doors for Collaboration
Going digital allows for information to be more easily shared across disciplines. Sometimes it can be difficult for doctors to gain access to information. Creating a digital hub streamlines the process.
Having more than one doctor increases the chances of a correct diagnosis.
It also removes barriers related to location. This means even rural doctors can consult doctors in large cities. Doctors all around the world can chime in and better help patients.
This type of communication comes in handy. Especially when a physician or clinic encounters symptoms they haven’t seen before. Or a possible illness they have limited experience with.
Future Medical Technology and Beyond
As shown, the medical benefits from expanding digital pathology services are endless. No matter your location or specialty, patient experience and physician collaboration will improve.
These types of advancements are critical as the population continues to live longer. As we live longer, we begin to need more complex treatments.
Have some questions? Contact us today for more information.