Value extraction and realisation and the diagnostic radiological image

PhD Project

Project summary

Recent years have seen an exponential growth in the number of radiological procedures undertaken and the resultant number of diagnostic radiological images generated. These images are acquired to fulfil a variety of specific clinical purposes, for example as an aid to diagnosis. The value of the images is generally considered relative to the extent to which they fulfil these intended purposes assessed against the cost of their acquisition. Since many diagnostic images are acquired using both expensive technologies and ionising radiation, the cost of acquisition may be either economic or human.

Unfortunately, the intended benefit from diagnostic radiological images is not always realised. This results in a negative skew to the risk-benefit analysis. Within the current economic context and in the light of the potential risks incurred by the individual, it is important to attempt to maximise the value realised from these resources. It is the hypothesis of this study that the value of diagnostic radiological images extends beyond the traditional understanding outlined above and that there is further value which may be extracted from the images. The identification and realisation of this value may assist in redressing this imbalance.

Project aims

• Develop a model of the value of diagnostic radiological images, both realised and potential
• Identify underexplored and unrealised areas of value in diagnostic radiological images
• Formulate a strategy for the extraction and realisation of novel value from diagnostic radiological images

Progress to date and outputs

• May 2015 - Research plan confirmation achieved
• March 2016 - Poster accepted for presentation at the annual conference of the Southern Institute for Health Informatics: ‘The potential contribution of diagnostic radiological images to medicines optimisation’