Name of the Procedure:

Common names: Secure Medical Image Data Sharing
Technical/Medical term: HCPCS Code G9329

Summary

This is a secure method for sharing DICOM format medical image data with external healthcare facilities or entities that are not affiliated with the patient's primary care providers. This sharing is done on a media-free, reciprocally searchable basis, with the patient's authorization, for at least 12 months after the study.

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to facilitate the secure transfer and access of medical image data across different healthcare facilities. This improves the continuity of care, especially when multiple specialists or secondary opinions are required.

Indications

• Patients requiring a second opinion from an out-of-network or distant specialist.
• Patients referred to an external facility for further treatment or specialized procedures.
• Cases where ongoing patient care would benefit from shared access to medical imaging data over time.

Preparation

• Patient authorization is required before sharing data.
• Ensure all medical imaging data is stored in DICOM format.
• The patient may be asked to sign consent forms agreeing to the sharing of their medical records.

Procedure Description

1. Obtain patient authorization for data sharing.
2. Convert medical imaging to DICOM format if it is not already.
3. Upload the DICOM images to a secure, HIPAA-compliant server.
4. Enable reciprocal search capabilities between consenting healthcare entities.
5. Authorized healthcare professionals from external facilities can access the imaging data for at least 12 months.

There are no anesthesia or sedation requirements for this procedure.

Duration

The data sharing setup process generally takes about 30 minutes to an hour. The authorization and access period lasts for at least 12 months after the study.

Setting

This procedure can be set up in any healthcare setting, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and diagnostic centers.

Personnel

• IT and data management personnel to handle secure uploading and server management.
• Healthcare professionals who are authorized to access and review the data, such as radiologists, specialists, and referring physicians.

Risks and Complications

• There is a minor risk of data breaches if improper security measures are not applied.
• Miscommunication or data misinterpretation if the images are not accompanied by comprehensive patient histories.

Benefits

• Improved coordination and continuity of care between different healthcare providers.
• Timely access to crucial medical images for better diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Reduces the need for repetitive imaging tests, minimizing patient exposure to radiation and reducing costs.

Recovery

There is no physical recovery required as this is a data sharing procedure. Any necessary follow-up would pertain to the medical conditions diagnosed or treated based on the shared images.

Alternatives

• Physical transfer of imaging data via CDs or other media, though this is less secure and not as efficient.

• Revaluation and re-imaging at the external facility, which can be redundant and costly.

  Pros and Cons:

  • Physical Transfer: Secure but slower and more cumbersome.
  • Revaluation/Re-imaging: Provides updated images but increases costs and patient radiation exposure.

Patient Experience

Patients may experience some anxiety related to sharing their medical data, but their involvement directly in the procedure is minimal. Keeping patients informed about the security measures and benefits can greatly enhance their comfort and cooperation. Any concerns about privacy and data security should be addressed by healthcare providers clearly explaining safeguards in place.