The Spanish Society of Medical Radiology (SERAM) has released a new radiology reference guide designed to standardize imaging procedures throughout Spain's healthcare system.
In an announcement on 19 June, SERAM President Dr. José Carmelo Albillos and Dr. Luis Concepción said the document updates tests and codes and will allow for monitoring of procedures and optimized waiting lists. It also aligns communities in Spain, such as Andalusia, Valencia, and Murcia, which already have their own catalogs.
SERAM highlighted that the updated document modifies 34% of the tests and codes included the catalog. The update is necessary partly due to the implementation of technological renewal plans that increased requirements on quality and the time to complete imaging tests, according to the statement.
Renewal of the technological infrastructure has, in some cases, led to the introduction of new imaging tests, such as contrast-enhanced mammography, dual-energy CT, and lung ultrasound, and tests and services need to be adapted, noted Albillos. The document also covers emerging interventional procedures, as well as noninterpretive activities of radiologists.
Furthermore, the guide incorporates test descriptors that facilitate correct use and comparison between imaging services, recording the number of operators routinely employed for each test or service, and incorporating standardized informed consent forms where applicable.
"This new version of the catalog equates all codes to achieve interoperability, which establishes national standards, allows for better resource planning, team management, and the implementation of comparisons," Concepción said, adding that it provides data portability that will provide a basis for the development of AI.
Find all details on the SERAM website.
