Portable X-rays–A new era?

Abstract

• This paper reports learning points from a small pilot study using a portable diagnostic x-ray set to radiograph patients in novel settings such as the patient home or care home. • This paper explores issues associated with regulatory compliance, staff training, oversight of radiation safety and the drafting of key risk safety documentation including risk assessments. • Some limitations to diagnostic imaging are explored and a simple subjective assessment of the visual clarity presented. • The pilot demonstrated potential for starting treatment sooner without recourse to a hospital visit. • It was well received by patients and all images were of diagnostic quality but was more labour intensive that traditional methods. This paper reports learning points from a small pilot study using a portable diagnostic x-ray set to radiograph patients in novel settings such as the patient home or care home. This paper explores issues associated with regulatory compliance, staff training, oversight of radiation safety and the drafting of key risk safety documentation including risk assessments. Some limitations to diagnostic imaging are explored and a simple subjective assessment of the visual clarity presented. The pilot demonstrated potential for starting treatment sooner without recourse to a hospital visit. It was well received by patients and all images were of diagnostic quality but was more labour intensive compared with traditional methods. Likely barriers and potential advantages to implementing a full clinical service are discussed.