Region Värmland leads the way with widespread implementation of medical image management  

Thanks to the widespread implementation of the VidiView software solution from Distributed Medical, Region Värmland has developed a groundbreaking approach to secure medical image management. The region now highlights the benefits of this implementation and how they handle their medical image material safely and efficiently. This work serves as a model for other regions on how to future-proof image management, enhance patient safety, and improve patient referrals.

Between 2016 and 2017, Region Värmland installed new technical solutions in the operating rooms at Karlstad Central Hospital. After the procurement and implementation were complete, it became apparent that they lacked the capability to store and edit recorded image and video material. With the requirement to store medical video and image material for up to six months, the hospital needed to rethink its approach. The solution they chose was VidiView from Distributed Medical, which acted as an intermediary system for handling medical image material in compliance with the requirements.

Over time, the collaboration with Distributed Medical resulted in a region-wide implementation of the system, as the medical technology department aimed to standardize the handling of image and video material. The ambition is for all departments within the region to use VidiView for medical image storage to enhance patient safety and record-keeping.

“VidiView is the product for all our video and media management. Regardless of which unit generates video material within our organisation, it is handled through VidiView for secure long-term storage and record-keeping”, says Bo Nilsson, Head of Operations for Medical Technology at Karlstad Central Hospital.

For the medical technology department, the system has also brought advantages, as VidiView’s administration is very straightforward and requires minimal central resources, saving time and money for the organization. Additionally, seamless system integration between VidiView and the medical record system enables efficient workflows for hospital departments.

“It’s about a setup with Cosmic, PACS, and VidiView, which are the three cornerstones of the documentation flow. The predefined process is that media documentation begins and ends in the medical record system”, says Bo Nilsson.

Today, staff in operating rooms, clinics, and even primary care centres can use the same solution for image and video documentation. This improves collaboration between departments, both from a patient safety perspective and in terms of workflow for staff.

“First, a medical record entry is created regarding the patient’s examination. This generates a worklist in VidiView, providing staff with a clear and validated list of examinations. Image, audio and video documentation are performed, and the material is stored on the VidiView server and then transferred to PACS for long-term storage. Finally, a link is created in the medical record system, indicating that the examination includes media material”, says Marie Moberg, systems administrator for medical technology at Karlstad Central Hospital.

With VidiView, Region Värmland has not only found a solution to their video storage challenges but also a secure platform for future development.