Newer zero-footprint DICOM viewers address these issues with web-based access and intuitive tools.
For practices relying on thick viewers, certain signs indicate it’s time to transition.
Thick viewers require supporting software and hardware to function. Users download bulky apps cluttering systems and slowing performance. VPN access for remote use also poses hurdles.
In contrast, zero-footprint DICOM online viewer lives fully online. Cloud-hosted, they need only a web browser to run. This makes for painless and flexible image access.
Here are key signals it’s time to switch from thick viewers:
Hardware and Software Issues Mount
Supporting aging thick viewers strains IT resources. From lagging workstations to complex viewer installation, it hampers productivity.
As systems age and viewing needs evolve, these legacy viewers become burdens. The hassle suggests moving to lightweight zero-footprint viewers.
Remote Access and Collaboration Suffer
Today’s dynamic workflows mean providers must access images wherever they are. Thick viewers depend on VPNs providing remote access. However, VPNs come with clunky setup, spotty connections, and other issues hampering collaboration.
Zero-footprint cloud viewers solve these problems with easy-access web interfaces usable anywhere.
Staff Productivity is Declining
Thick viewers bog down PACS and other systems. Delayed loading studies and tools disrupt radiologist workflows and reporting.
Tech-savvy staff accustomed to web apps grow frustrated.
Switching to zero-footprint viewers typically improves productivity by 20% or more. This is essential for efficient practices.
You’re Expanding Telehealth Offerings
Telemedicine makes provider location irrelevant. However, legacy thick viewers aren’t built for web access essential to telehealth initiatives.
Here too the cloud-based nature of zero-footprint viewers aligns better with telemedicine needs.
When to Schedule the Switch
Transitioning viewer platforms is no small shift. Here is a phased approach for smoothly switching from thick viewers:
| Phase | Steps |
| Assessment | Catalog current workflows, systems, and pain points. Set goals for new viewer transition. Calculate potential productivity gains. |
| Viewer Investigation | Research zero-footprint viewer options. Compare features like tools, integrations, security compliance, customer support. |
| Stakeholder Buy-In | Present findings to IT, administrators, providers. Discuss challenges current thick viewers pose and benefits of switching. |
| Transition Planning | Devise rollout plan and timeline balancing training with minimal downtime. Assign team roles and resources. Develop contingency plans. |
| Implementation | Test and configure new zero-footprint viewer. Import prior studies. Train staff on workflows. |
| Adoption Tracking | Support users in new system adoption. Track metrics like usage, load times, remote access. Address hurdles until adoption stabilizes. |
Following best practices here ensures a smooth viewer transition maximizing the chances of rapid staff adoption.
Why Make the Switch?
Beyond fixing viewer pain points, new generation zero-footprint DICOM platforms enable:
- Provider Collaboration: Instantly consult peers and specialists to enhance care.
- Streamlined Workflows: Intuitive viewers with smart tools boost reading speed.
- Access From Anywhere: Providers Diagnose on tablets or phones via browser-based platforms.
- Easy Integration: Open APIs allow connectivity with PACS, EMRs, billing tools.
- Scalability: Cloud-based viewers readily scale for large networks and study volumes.
- Enhanced Security: Viewers meeting modern standards like HIPAA better protect patient data.
Checking these boxes is essential for efficient modern radiology practices.
Key Takeaways
Here are critical points on moving to zero-footprint medical viewers:
- Signs like hardware strains, poor remote access, declining productivity indicate viewers need upgrading.
- Zero-footprint DICOM viewers solve these issues with better accessibility and performance.
- Follow best practices across assessment, planning, implementation for smooth transitions.
- Cloud-based viewers drive collaboration, productivity, mobility, scalability and security.
By taking a phased approach, medical practices can strategically shift to zero-footprint systems offering immense benefits.
The signs above signal when the time is right to undertake this vital modernization effort.
Medical practices using legacy thick-footprint DICOM viewers may wonder when to upgrade. Explore the signs when it’s time to switch to zero-footprint.
