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Karah N, Antypas K, Al-toutanji A, Suveyd U, Rafei R, Haraoui LP, Elamin W, Hamze M, Abbara A, Rhoads DD, Pantanowitz L, Uhlin BE. Teleclinical Microbiology: An Innovative Approach to Providing Web-Enabled Diagnostic Laboratory Services in Syria. Am J Clin Pathol 2022; 157:554-560. [PMID: 34643678 PMCID: PMC8973258 DOI: 10.1093/ajcp/aqab160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Telemedicine can compensate for the lack of health care specialists in response to protracted humanitarian crises. We sought to assess the usability of a teleclinical microbiology (TCM) program to provide diagnostic services in a hard-to-reach region of Syria. METHODS A semimobile station was equipped with conventional micrograph and macrograph digital imaging systems. An electronic platform (Telemicrobiology in Humanitarian Crises, TmHC) was created to facilitate sharing, interpreting, and storing the results. A pilot study was conducted to identify the bacterial species and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of 74 urinary clinical isolates. An experience survey was conducted to capture the feedback of 8 participants in the program. RESULTS The TmHC platform (https://sdh.ngo/tmhc/) enabled systematic transmission of the laboratory records and co-interpretation of the results. The isolates were identified as Escherichia coli (n = 61), Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 12), and Proteus mirabilis(n = 1). All the isolates were multidrug resistant. The performance of our TCM module was rated 4 (satisfying) and 5 (very satisfying) by 6 and 2 users, respectively. Data security of and cost-effectiveness were the main perceived concerns. CONCLUSIONS Although we encountered several context-related obstacles, our TCM program managed to reach a highly vulnerable population of 4 million people confined in the northwest region of Syria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabil Karah
- Department of Molecular Biology and Umeå Centre for Microbial Research, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Anas Al-toutanji
- Biochemical Science and Technology Department, Gaziantep Üniversitesi, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Usama Suveyd
- Zooteknik Department, Çukurova Üniversitesi, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Rayane Rafei
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Louis-Patrick Haraoui
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Wael Elamin
- G42 Healthcare, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Queen Mary UniversityLondon, London, UK
| | - Monzer Hamze
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Aula Abbara
- Department of Infection, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Daniel D Rhoads
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Bernt Eric Uhlin
- Department of Molecular Biology and Umeå Centre for Microbial Research, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Church DL, Naugler C. Essential role of laboratory physicians in transformation of laboratory practice and management to a value-based patient-centric model. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2020; 57:323-344. [PMID: 32180485 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2020.1720591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The laboratory is a vital part of the continuum of patient care. In fact, there are few programs in the healthcare system that do not rely on ready access and availability of complex diagnostic laboratory services. The existing transactional model of laboratory "medical practice" will not be able to meet the needs of the healthcare system as it rapidly shifts toward value-based care and precision medicine, which demands that practice be based on total system indicators, clinical effectiveness, and patient outcomes. Laboratory "value" will no longer be focused primarily on internal testing quality and efficiencies but rather on the relative cost of diagnostic testing compared to direct improvement in clinical and system outcomes. The medical laboratory as a "business" focused on operational efficiency and cost-controls must transform to become an essential clinical service that is a tightly integrated equal partner in direct patient care. We would argue that this paradigm shift would not be necessary if laboratory services had remained a "patient-centric" medical practice throughout the last few decades. This review is focused on the essential role of laboratory physicians in transforming laboratory practice and management to a value-based patient-centric model. Value-based practice is necessary not only to meet the challenges of the new precision medicine world order but also to bring about sustainable healthcare service delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre L Church
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Christopher Naugler
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Bailey AL, Ledeboer N, Burnham CAD. Clinical Microbiology Is Growing Up: The Total Laboratory Automation Revolution. Clin Chem 2018; 65:634-643. [PMID: 30518664 DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2017.274522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Historically, culture-based microbiology laboratory testing has relied on manual methods, and automated methods (such as those that have revolutionized clinical chemistry and hematology over the past several decades) were largely absent from the clinical microbiology laboratory. However, an increased demand for microbiology testing and standardization of sample-collection devices for microbiology culture, as well as a dwindling supply of microbiology technologists, has driven the adoption of automated methods for culture-based laboratory testing in clinical microbiology. CONTENT We describe systems currently enabling total laboratory automation (TLA) for culture-based microbiology testing. We describe the general components of a microbiology automation system and the various functions of these instruments. We then introduce the 2 most widely used systems currently on the market: Becton Dickinson's Kiestra TLA and Copan's WASPLab. We discuss the impact of TLA on metrics such as turnaround time and recovery of microorganisms, providing a review of the current literature and perspectives from laboratory directors, managers, and technical staff. Finally, we provide an outlook for future advances in TLA for microbiology with a focus on artificial intelligence for automated culture interpretation. SUMMARY TLA is playing an increasingly important role in clinical microbiology. Although challenges remain, TLA has great potential to affect laboratory efficiency, turnaround time, and the overall quality of culture-based microbiology testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam L Bailey
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Nathan Ledeboer
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Carey-Ann D Burnham
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO;
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Bashshur RL, Krupinski EA, Weinstein RS, Dunn MR, Bashshur N. The Empirical Foundations of Telepathology: Evidence of Feasibility and Intermediate Effects. Telemed J E Health 2017; 23:155-191. [PMID: 28170313 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2016.0278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telepathology evolved from video microscopy (i.e., "television microscopy") research in the early 1950s to video microscopy used in basic research in the biological sciences to a basic diagnostic tool in telemedicine clinical applications. Its genesis can be traced to pioneering feasibility studies regarding the importance of color and other image-based parameters for rendering diagnoses and a series of studies assessing concordance of virtual slide and light microscopy diagnoses. This article documents the empirical foundations of telepathology. METHODS A selective review of the research literature during the past decade (2005-2016) was conducted using robust research design and adequate sample size as criteria for inclusion. CONCLUSIONS The evidence regarding feasibility/acceptance of telepathology and related information technology applications has been well documented for several decades. The majority of evidentiary studies focused on intermediate outcomes, as indicated by comparability between telepathology and conventional light microscopy. A consistent trend of concordance between the two modalities was observed in terms of diagnostic accuracy and reliability. Additional benefits include use of telepathology and whole slide imaging for teaching, research, and outreach to resource-limited countries. Challenges still exist, however, in terms of use of telepathology as an effective diagnostic modality in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashid L Bashshur
- 1 School of Public Health, University of Michigan Health System , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | | | - Matthew R Dunn
- 1 School of Public Health, University of Michigan Health System , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Noura Bashshur
- 1 School of Public Health, University of Michigan Health System , Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Pantanowitz L, Dickinson K, Evans AJ, Hassell LA, Henricks WH, Lennerz JK, Lowe A, Parwani AV, Riben M, Smith CD, Tuthill JM, Weinstein RS, Wilbur DC, Krupinski EA, Bernard J. ATA clinical guidelines for telepathology. Telemed J E Health 2016; 20:1049-56. [PMID: 25384254 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2014.9976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Liron Pantanowitz
- 1 Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Rhoads DD, Habib-Bein NF, Hariri RS, Hartman DJ, Monaco SE, Lesniak A, Duboy J, Salama MES, Pantanowitz L. Comparison of the diagnostic utility of digital pathology systems for telemicrobiology. J Pathol Inform 2016; 7:10. [PMID: 27076988 PMCID: PMC4809116 DOI: 10.4103/2153-3539.177687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telemicrobiology is a growing component of clinical microbiology informatics. However, few studies have been performed to assess the diagnostic utility of telemicroscopy systems in evaluating infectious agents. OBJECTIVE Evaluate multiple contemporary digital pathology platforms for use in diagnostic telemicrobiology. MATERIALS AND METHODS A mix of thirty cases that included viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitological findings were evaluated by four experts using ×40 whole slide imaging (WSI) scans, ×83 oil-immersion WSI scans, ×100 oil-immersion WSI scans, digital photomicrographs, and glass slides. RESULTS The ×83 WSI, ×100 WSI, and photomicrograph interpretations were not significantly different in quality and accuracy when compared to glass slide interpretations. The ×40 WSI interpretations were of lower quality and were more likely to be incorrect when compared to glass slide interpretations. CONCLUSIONS In this study, high magnification, oil-immersion digital pathology platforms are better suited to support telemicrobiology applications and yield interpretations on par with glass slide evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel D. Rhoads
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Nadia F. Habib-Bein
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
- Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rahman S. Hariri
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Douglas J. Hartman
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Sara E. Monaco
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Andrew Lesniak
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Jon Duboy
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | | | - Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
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Mochon AB, Cruz MS. Telemicrobiology: Focusing on Quality in an Era of Laboratory Consolidation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinmicnews.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Rhoads DD, Mathison BA, Bishop HS, da Silva AJ, Pantanowitz L. Review of Telemicrobiology. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2015; 140:362-70. [PMID: 26317376 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2015-0116-ra] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Microbiology laboratories are continually pursuing means to improve quality, rapidity, and efficiency of specimen analysis in the face of limited resources. One means by which to achieve these improvements is through the remote analysis of digital images. Telemicrobiology enables the remote interpretation of images of microbiology specimens. To date, the practice of clinical telemicrobiology has not been thoroughly reviewed. OBJECTIVE To identify the various methods that can be employed for telemicrobiology, including emerging technologies that may provide value to the clinical laboratory. DATA SOURCES Peer-reviewed literature, conference proceedings, meeting presentations, and expert opinions pertaining to telemicrobiology have been evaluated. CONCLUSIONS A number of modalities have been employed for telemicroscopy, including static capture techniques, whole slide imaging, video telemicroscopy, mobile devices, and hybrid systems. Telemicrobiology has been successfully implemented for several applications, including routine primary diagnosis, expert teleconsultation, and proficiency testing. Emerging areas of telemicrobiology include digital plate reading of bacterial cultures, mobile health applications, and computer-augmented analysis of digital images. To date, static image capture techniques have been the most widely used modality for telemicrobiology, despite newer technologies being available that may produce better quality interpretations. Telemicrobiology adds value, quality, and efficiency to the clinical microbiology laboratory, and increased adoption of telemicrobiology is anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Liron Pantanowitz
- From the Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Drs Rhoads and Pantanowitz);,the Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia (Messrs Mathison and Bishop and Dr da Silva);,and the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, US Food and Drug Administration, Laurel, Maryland (Dr da Silva).,Dr Rhoads is now with the Department of Laboratory Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
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Schifman RB, Meier FA, Souers RJ. Timeliness and accuracy of reporting preliminary blood culture results: a College of American Pathologists Q-probes study of 65 institutions. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2015; 139:621-6. [PMID: 25927146 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2014-0258-cp] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The speed and accuracy of preliminary blood culture reports impacts patient management and outcomes. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the accuracy and timeliness of preliminary blood culture results among multiple laboratories. DESIGN Q-Probes participants collected turnaround time (TAT) data on preliminary Gram stains, compared accuracy of up to 100 preliminary to final culture Gram stain results, and described blood culture laboratory practices. RESULTS Sixty-four laboratories and 5031 blood cultures were evaluated. All participants used continuously monitoring blood culture systems. Median TAT from initial growth detection to notification of results was 45 minutes, with the longest component being preparation of Gram stains (median time = 25 minutes). Participants (N = 40) reporting a continuous schedule for processing blood cultures had significantly lower overall TAT (median= 37 minutes) compared with 15 participants with intermittent processing schedules (median= 124 minutes), P= .003. Time to complete Gram stain processing was lower (median time = 21 minutes) for 39 participants using continuous processing schedule compared with 14 others (median time= 67 minutes), P= .03. Goals for total TAT were used by 27 of 56 participants (48.2%). Having goals did not significantly affect TAT. A total of 4962 of 5021 Gram stain results (98.8%) agreed with final culture results. The highest discrepancy rates occurred among gram-positive bacilli (20 of 335; 6.0%) and mixed cultures (22 of 106; 20.8%). CONCLUSIONS This study provides benchmarks for assessing blood culture quality performance. Timeliness and accuracy of preliminary blood culture reports were excellent. However, nearly one-third of laboratories did not process blood cultures continuously. This significantly prolonged reporting results, which could affect patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron B Schifman
- From Diagnostics, Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson (Dr Schifman); the Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston (Dr Meier); and the Department of Biostatistics, College of American Pathologists, Northfield, Illinois (Ms Souers)
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Rhoads DD, Novak SM, Pantanowitz L. A review of the current state of digital plate reading of cultures in clinical microbiology. J Pathol Inform 2015; 6:23. [PMID: 26110091 PMCID: PMC4466785 DOI: 10.4103/2153-3539.157789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Digital plate reading (DPR) is increasingly being adopted as a means to facilitate the analysis and improve the quality and efficiency within the clinical microbiology laboratory. This review discusses the role of DPR in the context of total laboratory automation and explores some of the platforms currently available or in development for digital image capturing of microbial growth on media. The review focuses on the advantages and challenges of DPR. Peer-reviewed studies describing the utility and quality of these novel DPR systems are largely lacking, and professional guidelines for DPR implementation and quality management are needed. Further development and more widespread adoption of DPR is anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel D Rhoads
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Susan M Novak
- Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Regional Reference Laboratories, North Hollywood, California, USA
| | - Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Abstract
Telepathology is the practice of remote pathology using telecommunication links to enable the electronic transmission of digital pathology images. Telepathology can be used for remotely rendering primary diagnoses, second opinion consultations, quality assurance, education, and research purposes. The use of telepathology for clinical patient care has been limited mostly to large academic institutions. Barriers that have limited its widespread use include prohibitive costs, legal and regulatory issues, technologic drawbacks, resistance from pathologists, and above all a lack of universal standards. This article provides an overview of telepathology technology and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid Farahani
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Pantanowitz L, Dickinson K, Evans AJ, Hassell LA, Henricks WH, Lennerz JK, Lowe A, Parwani AV, Riben M, Smith CD, Tuthill JM, Weinstein RS, Wilbur DC, Krupinski EA, Bernard J. American Telemedicine Association clinical guidelines for telepathology. J Pathol Inform 2014. [PMID: 25379345 DOI: 10.4103/2153–3539.143329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kim Dickinson
- Integrated Oncology, LabCorp and Digital Pathology Association, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Andrew J Evans
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lewis A Hassell
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Walter H Henricks
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jochen K Lennerz
- Department of Pathology, University Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Anil V Parwani
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael Riben
- Department of Pathology, Anatomic Pathology Informatics, MD Anderson, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Col Daniel Smith
- Department of Pathology, Keesler Medical Center, Biloxi, MS, USA
| | - J Mark Tuthill
- Department of Pathology, Pathology Informatics, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - David C Wilbur
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Pantanowitz L, Dickinson K, Evans AJ, Hassell LA, Henricks WH, Lennerz JK, Lowe A, Parwani AV, Riben M, Smith CD, Tuthill JM, Weinstein RS, Wilbur DC, Krupinski EA, Bernard J. American Telemedicine Association clinical guidelines for telepathology. J Pathol Inform 2014; 5:39. [PMID: 25379345 PMCID: PMC4221880 DOI: 10.4103/2153-3539.143329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kim Dickinson
- Integrated Oncology, LabCorp and Digital Pathology Association, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Andrew J Evans
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lewis A Hassell
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Walter H Henricks
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jochen K Lennerz
- Department of Pathology, University Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Anil V Parwani
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael Riben
- Department of Pathology, Anatomic Pathology Informatics, MD Anderson, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Col Daniel Smith
- Department of Pathology, Keesler Medical Center, Biloxi, MS, USA
| | - J Mark Tuthill
- Department of Pathology, Pathology Informatics, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - David C Wilbur
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Rhoads DD, Sintchenko V, Rauch CA, Pantanowitz L. Clinical microbiology informatics. Clin Microbiol Rev 2014; 27:1025-47. [PMID: 25278581 PMCID: PMC4187636 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00049-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical microbiology laboratory has responsibilities ranging from characterizing the causative agent in a patient's infection to helping detect global disease outbreaks. All of these processes are increasingly becoming partnered more intimately with informatics. Effective application of informatics tools can increase the accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of microbiology testing while decreasing the laboratory workload, which can lead to optimized laboratory workflow and decreased costs. Informatics is poised to be increasingly relevant in clinical microbiology, with the advent of total laboratory automation, complex instrument interfaces, electronic health records, clinical decision support tools, and the clinical implementation of microbial genome sequencing. This review discusses the diverse informatics aspects that are relevant to the clinical microbiology laboratory, including the following: the microbiology laboratory information system, decision support tools, expert systems, instrument interfaces, total laboratory automation, telemicrobiology, automated image analysis, nucleic acid sequence databases, electronic reporting of infectious agents to public health agencies, and disease outbreak surveillance. The breadth and utility of informatics tools used in clinical microbiology have made them indispensable to contemporary clinical and laboratory practice. Continued advances in technology and development of these informatics tools will further improve patient and public health care in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel D Rhoads
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Vitali Sintchenko
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity and Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology-Public Health, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carol A Rauch
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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[Use of telemedicine within the diagnosis of parasites and viruses]. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2012; 124 Suppl 3:10-3. [PMID: 23064862 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-012-0240-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2012] [Accepted: 08/06/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Infectious diseases are among the most common diseases in military deployment situations. Their diagnosis requires special equipment and expertise, which are both provided by the laboratories within the mission area. In order to further enhance the diagnostic process by means of telemedical expert support, a telemicrobiology module with special devices, camera and software has been designed within the medical service of the German armed forces as a modification to the standard telemedicine workstation. The telemicrobiology equipment which was not only developed but also evaluated at Koblenz, was then installed in the mission laboratories and has proved useful in routine practice. Teleparasitology is the most frequently used application under the conditions encountered during missions abroad. Televirology counts for establishing scientific network capabilities. The most predominant and important factor is the immediate gaining of expertise in the area of mission without the exportation of the expert.
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Andreazzi DB, Rossi F, Wen CL. Interactive Tele-Education Applied to a Distant Clinical Microbiology Specialization University Course. Telemed J E Health 2011; 17:524-9. [DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2011.0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Flávia Rossi
- Faculty of Medicine of USP—Hospital das Clínicas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Chao L. Wen
- Faculty of Medicine of USP—Pathology-Telemedicine, São Paulo, Brazil
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Scheid P, Lam DM, Thömmes A, Zöller L. Telemicrobiology: A Novel Telemedicine Capability for Mission Support in the Field of Infectious Medicine. Telemed J E Health 2007; 13:108-17. [PMID: 17489697 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2007.0043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases are among the most common medical conditions suffered by soldiers while serving in missions away from their home countries. The diagnosis of these diseases requires special procedures and expertise, both of which are provided by field microbiological laboratories. In order to support the diagnostic process by means of telemedicine, a modification of the standard German Armed Forces telemedicine workstation was devised. A telemicrobiology module with special equipment, camera, and software has been designed and validated. This module, currently in use in two operational military theaters, has stood the test in routine practice. It allows the transmission of high-quality static images of microscopic specimens or overgrown nutrient media in a matter of seconds. The inclusion of experts in diagnostic analysis through the use of telemedicine improves diagnostic specificity by avoiding false positive results and, particularly in medical parasitology, allows a treatment-essential diagnosis without the dispatch of specimens to Germany. The recently designed telemicrobiology module has been proven, and is now deployed, providing a higher level of field diagnostic support than previously possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Scheid
- Central Institute of the Bundeswehr Medical Service, Koblenz, Germany
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Kaul S, Arora DS, Malhotra V. Telepathology: Past, Present and Future. APOLLO MEDICINE 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s0976-0016(11)60432-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
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Abstract
Emerging infectious diseases (including community-, hospital- and bioterrorism-acquired infections), emerging resistance to antimicrobial agents and increased social demand are increasing the volume and altering the nature of the activities required from clinical microbiology laboratories. Centralization, an increase in automation and advances in bioinformatics allow clinical microbiology laboratories to keep up with these ever-increasing demands. Technologies and techniques that are progressing at the moment include rapid molecular detection, identification and genotyping of bacteria; antimicrobial-resistance determination; rapid immunological detection of pathogens; easy-to-use electron microscopy; and data digitalization and the secure online exchange of information. The future evolution of clinical microbiology might include the spread of 'at-doctor' tests and bedside tests at the same time as specialized diagnoses are centralized in reference laboratories that are connected on national and international scales. Centralization should allow the development of P3/P4 laboratories, molecular-biology platforms, including mass spectrometry, and serology platforms, including antigenic microarrays for serodiagnosis. Sampling strategies might evolve towards pathology-based sampling kits in accordance with the development of multiplex platforms. In addition, data reporting could be based solely on digitalized figures and could include data interpretation and the addition of electronic links to up-to-date literature, which can be exchanged in a timely manner through the Internet. Large clinical microbiology laboratories could engage in the regular reporting of epidemiological trends for pathogens, pathogen subtypes and antimicrobial resistance. These anticipated changes will require the advanced training of technicians in bioinformatics, and the creation of posts for maintenance workers and engineers for the continuous implementation of new techniques. Clinical microbiologists will have an increased role in communicating with infectious-disease practitioners in the interpretation and delivery of results, with consultants in diagnosis and antimicrobial treatment, and in strategic laboratory management.
In the past decade, clinical microbiology laboratories have undergone important changes with the introduction of molecular biology techniques and laboratory automation. In the future, there will be a need for more rapid diagnoses, increased standardization of testing and greater adaptability to cope with new threats from infectious microorganisms, such as agents of bioterrorism and emerging pathogens. The combination of the new tools that are now being developed in research laboratories, the general reorganization of clinical laboratories and improved communication between physicians and clinical microbiologists should lead to profound changes in the way that clinical microbiologists work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Didier Raoult
- Unité des Rickettsies, CNRS UMR 6020, Faculté de Médecine, Université de la Méditerranée, 27 Bd Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille, France.
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Aoki N, Dunn K, Johnson-Throop KA, Turley JP. Outcomes and Methods in Telemedicine Evaluation. Telemed J E Health 2003; 9:393-401. [PMID: 14980098 DOI: 10.1089/153056203772744734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
One hundred and four articles, published from 1966 to 2000, were reviewed to investigate telemedicine evaluation studies in terms of methods and outcomes. A total of 112 evaluations were reported in these 104 articles. Two types of evaluations were evaluated: clinical and nonclinical. Within the clinical evaluations, three were on clinical effectiveness, 26 on patient satisfaction, 49 on diagnostic accuracy, and nine on cost. In the non-clinical evaluations, 15 articles discussed technical issues relating to digital images, such as bandwidth, resolution, and color, and 10 articles assessed management issues concerning efficiency of care, such as avoiding unnecessary patient transfer, or saving time. Of the 112 evaluations, 72 were descriptive in nature. The main methods used in the remaining 40 articles used quantitative methods. Nineteen articles employed statistical techniques, such as receiver operating characteristics curve (three evaluations) and kappa values (seven evaluations). Only one article utilized a qualitative approach to describe a telemedicine system. Currently, there are a number of good reports on diagnostic accuracy, satisfaction, and technological evaluation. However, clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness are important parameters, and they have received limited attention. Since telemedicine evaluations tend to explore various outcomes, it may be appropriate to evaluate from a multidisciplinary perspective, and to utilize various methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriaki Aoki
- School of Health Information Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.
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23
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Cross SS, Dennis T, Start RD. Telepathology: current status and future prospects in diagnostic histopathology. Histopathology 2002; 41:91-109. [PMID: 12147086 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2559.2002.01423.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Telepathology is the process of diagnostic histopathology performed on digital images viewed on a display screen rather than by conventional glass slide light microscopy. The technology of telepathology has radically improved over the past 5 years so that it is no longer the limiting factor in the diagnostic process. This review looks at the resources needed for dynamic and static telepathology, including image quality, computers and software interfaces, means of transmission and human resources. It critically analyses 32 published trials of telepathology, including some large prospective studies, in all areas of diagnostic histopathology including intraoperative frozen sections, routine and referral cases. New developments, including internet solutions and virtual microscopy, are described and there is analysis of the economics of telepathology within health care systems. The review concludes that all the necessary technology for telepathology is available, there is strong published evidence for a diagnostic accuracy comparable with glass slide diagnosis, in many contexts there is a clear-cut economic argument in favour of telepathology, and that the technique should now be integrated into mainstream diagnostic histopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- S S Cross
- Digital Pathology Research Group, Academic Unit of Pathology, Section of Oncology and Pathology, Division of Genomic Medicine, School of Medicine and Bioscience, University of Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK.
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Dunn BE, Choi H, Almagro UA, Recla DL. Combined robotic and nonrobotic telepathology as an integral service component of a geographically dispersed laboratory network. Hum Pathol 2001; 32:1300-3. [PMID: 11774160 DOI: 10.1053/hupa.2001.29644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
To achieve real-time connectivity between its 8 hopital-based laboratories, Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 12, headquartered in Chicago, IL, has implemented a hybrid dynamic store-and-forward (HDSF) telepathology network that extends across portions of 3 states. The majority of diagnostic telepathology functions are provided to the 3 hospitals (Iron Mountain, MI; Tomah, WI; and North Chicago, IL), which lack on-site pathologists and are serviced by the 4 pathologists located in Milwaukee, WI. In surgical pathology, routine primary diagnosis, frozen section diagnosis, and clinical consultation are provided with telepathology. In addition, autopsy and specialty clinical conferences are frequently performed by using telepathology. Telepathology has been applied to a variety of areas within clinical pathology as well, including protein electrophoresis, immunoelectrophoresis, peripheral blood smears, body fluids, microbiology, and distance learning. Implementation of telepathology has allowed VISN 12 to reach the goal of providing a single standard of accurate and timely pathology service, even at small sites that lack an on-site pathologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- B E Dunn
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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25
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Weinstein RS, Descour MR, Liang C, Bhattacharyya AK, Graham AR, Davis JR, Scott KM, Richter L, Krupinski EA, Szymus J, Kayser K, Dunn BE. Telepathology overview: from concept to implementation. Hum Pathol 2001; 32:1283-99. [PMID: 11774159 DOI: 10.1053/hupa.2001.29643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Telepathology is the practice of pathology at a distance by using video imaging and telecommunications. Significant progress has been made in telepathology. To date, 12 classes of telepathology systems have been engineered. Rapid and ultrarapid virtual slide processors may further expand the range of telepathology applications. Next-generation digital imaging light microscopes, such as miniaturized microscope arrays (MMA), may make virtual slide processing a routine laboratory tool. Diagnostic accuracy of telepathology is comparable with that of conventional light microscopy for most diagnoses. Current telepathology applications include intraoperative frozen sections services, routine surgical pathology services, second opinions, and subspecialty consultations. Three telepathology practice models are discussed: the subspecialty practice (SSP) model; the case triage practice (CTP) model; and the virtual group practice (VGP) model. Human factors influence performance with telepathology. Experience with 500 telepathology cases from multiple organs significantly reduces the video viewing time per case (P < .01). Many technology innovations can be represented as S-curves. After long incubation periods, technology use and/or efficiency may accelerate. Telepathology appears to be following an S-curve for a technical innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Weinstein
- Department of Pathology, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ 85724-5043, USA
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Dunn BE, Choi H, Almagro UA, Recla DL, Davis CW. Telepathology networking in VISN-12 of the Veterans Health Administration. Telemed J E Health 2001; 6:349-54. [PMID: 11110638 DOI: 10.1089/153056200750040200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN)-12, headquartered in Chicago, has implemented a telepathology network between the eight VISN-12 hospital laboratories and Loyola University Medical School linked by an economical, high-speed wide-area network (WAN). Implementation of the WAN has reduced monthly telecommunications costs in VISN-12 by approximately 67%. In addition to telepathology, the WAN enables real-time teleradiology (general, computer tomography, and ultrasound), telefluoroscopy, telenuclear medicine imaging, telepsychiatry, and other forms of teleconsultation. Current applications of telepathology in VISN-12 include: primary diagnosis and consultation in surgical pathology, interpretation of serum protein electrophoresis and immunofixation gels, provision of support for consolidated microbiology laboratories, review of problematic peripheral blood smears, and distance learning. We have learned a variety of lessons from telepathology. The enthusiasm and technical skill of providers are essential for success. As well, frequent communication and rapid technical support are necessary. Finally, in a supportive environment, telepathology is a tool that can help bring together clinical laboratories with shared missions and goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- B E Dunn
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Services, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
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Krupinski EA, Barker GP, Beinar S, Lopez AM, Weinstein RS. Fluctuations in service loads in an established telemedicine program. Telemed J E Health 2001; 7:27-31. [PMID: 11321706 DOI: 10.1089/153056201300093859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The goal of this investigation was to determine if there were identifiable patterns in the volume and types of teleconsults provided by an established telemedicine program over an extended period of time. Data from over 3 years of providing telemedicine consults within a university-based telemedicine programs were analyzed to identify trends and points of significant change in service provision. Teleconsult volume over a 40-month period was best fit by a logarithmic transformation of the regression curve that is characteristic of slow but steady growth. Consults have been provided in 53 subspecialties, with an average of 12 different subspecialties each month. Number of subspecialties per month was best fit by a sixth-order polynomial. Teleconsult volume has varied on a monthly basis, but overall volume has increased over time. This program has maintained its initial goal of being a multispecialty provider. Analyzing telemedicine consult data over extended periods of time is especially useful for long-term program evaluation and development of a successful business plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Krupinski
- Departments of Radiology and Pathology, Arizona Telemedicine Program, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA.
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Dunn BE, Choi H, Almagro UA, Recla DL, Krupinski EA, Weinstein RS. Routine surgical telepathology in the Department of Veterans Affairs: experience-related improvements in pathologist performance in 2200 cases. TELEMEDICINE JOURNAL : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN TELEMEDICINE ASSOCIATION 2000; 5:323-37. [PMID: 10908448 DOI: 10.1089/107830299311899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether diagnostic concordance, case deferral rate, and/or time required to review slides changed significantly as telepathologists gained additional experience using a hybrid dynamic/store-and-forward (HDSF) telepathology (TP) system on the 2000 cases following an initial 200 consecutive surgical cases, previously reported. MATERIALS AND METHODS Gross surgical pathology specimens were prepared by specially trained personnel in Iron Mountain, Michigan. For TP, glass slides were placed on the stage of a robotic microscope at the Iron Mountain VAMC (remote site); control of the motorized microscope was then transferred to a pathologist located 220 miles away at the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, VAMC (host site). For each case, a telepathologist had the option of either rendering a diagnosis or deferring the case for later analysis by conventional light microscopy (LM). After the slides were read by TP and a surgical pathology report had been generated (for nondeferred cases), the slides were transported to Milwaukee, where they were reexamined by the same pathologist, now using LM. When there was disagreement between the TP and LM diagnosis, a supplemental or revised report was issued, and the referring physician was notified by telephone immediately. All supplemental and revised reports were reviewed by a third pathologist in the group. The slides were then reviewed by the pathology group practice or, when there was no consensus, by the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology to establish a "truth" diagnosis. To determine changes in telepathologist performance with experience after the initial start-up of the service, their performance in handling 10 consecutive sets of 200 surgical pathology cases was analyzed. RESULTS Concordance rates for clinically significant TP and LM diagnoses were high for all 10 sets, ranging from 99% to 100%. Comparing the first set (Cases 201-400) with the last set (Cases 2001-2200), viewing times per case were reduced from 10.26 min to 3. 58 min. Viewing times per slide were reduced from 3.44 min to 1.13 min per slide, comparing the first and last sets. Case turnaround times (TAT) decreased from 2.46 days to < or =1.5 days. CONCLUSION Thes results demonstrate that improvements in TP services occur over time as the result of additional experience using the TP system. The high diagnostic concordance and low rate of case deferral lend additional support to the proposal that a host-site pathologist using HDSF TP can substitute effectively for an on-site pathologist as a service provider.
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Affiliation(s)
- B E Dunn
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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