The term “telepathology” was coined in 1986 and the field of remote telepathology has come on in leaps and bounds since then. Yet what is remote telepathology and how can it benefit the budgets of hospitals?
Investing in new technology is a substantial decision and not one to be taken lightly. Yet frozen section telepathology can substantially cut down on costs.
Ready to learn more about telepathology and how it can reduce your costs? Then read on!
What is Remote Telepathology?
Remote telepathology builds on the established technique of frozen section pathology. The surgeon can take a sample of a tumor, which is then frozen and cut into thin slices, that a pathologist can then examine.
One of the chief advantages of remote telepathology is that the whole procedure is very quick and if necessary, the surgeon can be asked to take more samples for the pathologist. There is no large delay between the sample being taken and diagnosis and telepathology make this even quicker.
As we know, the speed with which we diagnose cancer plays a significant role in determining a patient’s prognosis. Cancers can grow at tremendous speed and the faster we diagnose a patient, the faster they can start receiving treatment and the more likely they are to recover from their illness.
Telepathology means that remote and small hospitals without a dedicated pathologist can diagnose their patients quicker. A pathologist can view richly detailed videos and images of the frozen sections, allowing for a diagnosis while the patient is still under anesthetic.
Financial Benefits of Telepathology
We’ve shown you why telepathology is good for patients. Yet it’s good for your finances too. Let’s take a look at why this is.
Less Time in the Operating Room
Traditional pathology can take a long time. The cost per minute of operations in California is $37. Cutting down on operating time can result in huge financial dividends.
Other staining methods in pathology can take hours to complete. Frozen section pathology takes minutes. This results in less time in the operating room and less money spent.
Lower Costs Than a Dedicated Pathologist
Employing a pathologist is a huge expense for small hospitals. Our telepathology solutions are available around the clock, 365 days a year. This means that you no longer need to employ a pathologist after hours.
Lower Travel Expenses
If you have to take samples to a pathologist, you will need to pay travel expenses to transport your sample to the lab. Using telepathology renders travel unnecessary and removes this expense from your budget.
Telepathology Can Benefit Your Medical Facility
Remote telepathology benefits your patients and your finances. We’re industry leaders in telepathology and we’re your best option for affordable, top-class treatment.
If you have any questions about telepathology, or how our services can benefit your medical facility, please contact us.
