Current Trends in Teleradiology Utilization Patterns in India, Including Perceptions and Attitudes- A Nationwide Survey of Indian Radiologists

Abstract

Purpose: To provide an overview of teleradiology utilization patterns in India, including the current trends, perceptions and attitudes by conducting a nationwide survey among Indian Radiologists.
Methods: An online nationwide survey of Indian radiologists working in varied practice settings was conducted with a questionnaire via email. A descriptive analysis of the data was performed, and the results were summarized.
Results: The survey was completed by 309 radiology professionals (response rate 3%). The significant majority reported utilizing or practicing teleradiology. A large fraction of participants reported using a dedicated teleradiology workflow. However, the use of portable devices, such as laptops, to read images was also reported. Teleradiology was reported to be used in a variety of clinical scenarios, including emergency and after-hours coverage as well as routine reporting. The majority of survey respondents were in an urban location. Teleradiology was expected to increase utilization, reach, and sustainability of radiology services, with reduced turnaround time, reduced cost, improved workload distribution, perception of improved work-life balance, improved radiology support for referring physicians and improved service enumerated as the benefits. Interestingly, a slight majority felt that teleradiology may not be an asset for the key stakeholders, i.e., the radiologist, the referring physician and the patient, but instead a liability. Concerns of greater pressure to perform better at a lower fee as a teleradiologist, commoditization of radiology by price undercutting, disruption of relationship with physicians and patients and lack of accountability were expressed.
Conclusion: This survey provides insight into the utilization patterns of teleradiology in India its impact on healthcare, and highlights the perceptions and attitudes of Indian Radiologists towards this practice model. While teleradiology is widely utilized with an overall positive attitude, concerns remain that need to be addressed.