How to Share Your Medical Imaging Records Securely with Multiple Providers

According to a recent study, only 51% of patients access their health information electronically. In today’s increasingly connected world, being able to share your medical imaging records is vital for coordinated care. When you have access to your own health images, you can share them in diagnostic quality when required, without the administrative burden of getting all the proper authorizations and collecting physical copies.

The ability to analyze your X-rays or MRIs can help providers like physiotherapists design treatment programs that materially improve the results of your care. Alternatively, if you have a health condition that requires consultations with specialists, being able to securely and easily share your digital medical images and reports leads to better health outcomes. It also helps prevent delays in testing or treatments, as easily accessible medical records allow physicians to move on to the next steps without waiting for record transfers.

 

 

Common barriers to sharing medical imaging records

Many patients still rely on outdated methods, such as physical copies or CDs, to transfer their medical images. More frequently, patients must contact the clinic directly to request and initiate record sharing. Regardless, This process can be frustrating and inefficient due to several factors:

• Time-consuming retrieval: While less common these days, some patients need to visit imaging clinics in person, obtain physical copies, and then distribute them manually to multiple providers. Physical media can also be easily lost or accessed by unauthorized individuals, compromising privacy.
• Release of information processes: Whether the records are physical or digital, most clinics require the patient to officially authorize the transfer or sharing of their records. There are exceptions, but most patient privacy protection laws require permission to be given in advance for record sharing. This necessity can delay the process.
• Waiting on medical records to arrive: Many imaging clinics and facilities rely on their medical records department to transfer and share patient records. If the department is busy or has a backlog of requests, it can take a week or more to send these records.
• Incomplete records: It is not uncommon for an important imaging report or result to be missed when shared with another facility. When records are missing, steps must be taken to have them sent so the physician can have a complete record of the patient, which can lead to delays.

All of these common record sharing requirements can lead to time-consuming frustration. There is, however, a better way to share your medical images and reports.

 

 

Introducing a modern solution for record sharing

Many hospitals and imaging clinics now store their images and reports digitally. Not only do digital platforms simplify the access and sharing of medical imaging, but they also reduce the space required for environmentally controlled physical storage.

Modern digital tools allow for direct, encrypted sharing. With the right platform, you can share your medical images and reports with specialists and treatment providers wherever they are, no matter where you might be. You can share your imaging in clear diagnostic quality with your local RMT or an internationally renowned surgeon across the globe.

 

PocketHealth’s role in simplifying secure sharing

PocketHealth gives you secure access to your medical imaging and the ability to instantly share your images in diagnostic quality on any device (phone, computer or tablet). Eliminate the need for physical CDs and overcome the limitations of clinic-specific portals while ensuring lifelong storage of your medical images and reports.

We have a simple, straightforward signup process that enables you to access imaging records from more than 800 hospitals and imaging clinics. Once you register, you’ll automatically be notified when any new medical images are released. You can share those images as needed, with family healthcare providers.

Pockethealth also offers tools to help you better understand your results and become a more active participant in your care. Report Reader provides clear, easy-to-understand definitions of complex medical terms in your reports, so you’ll be fully informed and aware when you meet with specialists. This is paired with illustrations and highlights of anatomy in your imaging so you can better understand your results. MyCare Navigator not only surfaces follow-up recommendations but also provides you with a personalized list of questions for your doctor to help you steer follow-up appointments and make more informed decisions about your care.

 

The impact of easy access to medical imaging

Having control over your medical imaging records can make a significant difference in your healthcare experience. Here are a few real-life examples of patients who have benefited from digital access:

• Ruth’s routine mammograms were interrupted by COVID-19. When she was finally able to return, the radiologist discovered breast cancer. She turned to PocketHealth to ensure she always had instant access to her health history, because having control over her records made her feel more in control of her health.
• PocketHealth also makes it possible to share medical images with family members. Aileen was battling metastatic breast cancer and a brain tumour during the pandemic, which meant her husband couldn’t accompany her to her imaging appointments. PocketHealth allowed him to see all her X-rays, MRIs and mammograms, so he could much better support her on her health journey.
• Dave has stage 3 pancreatic cancer, making medical imaging a routine part of his life. When he discovered PocketHealth, he gained access to his imaging records dating back to 2013. This allowed him to review his history at his own pace, track changes in his condition, and come prepared with informed questions for his doctor.

 

Take control of your medical imaging

Traditional methods for sharing medical images are time-consuming and put extra responsibility and effort on your shoulders. When you adopt secure, patient-friendly digital solutions, the result is better and more seamless care coordination. Both you and your healthcare providers will be fully up to date, and you’ll have secure, easy access to your medical images and reports from any device.

Accessing and sharing your medical images and reports allows you to fully understand the progression of your health and make informed decisions about next steps. PocketHealth is a fast, easy and secure solution for sharing your images.