13 Oct Radiology untethered: 4G technology promises new levels of mobility

DiagnosticImaging.com | October 12 – Launch of the new fourth-generation network from cellular wireless companies will enable radiologists to upload and download images more than 10 times faster than they have been able to in the past. While wireless mobile applications for imaging are still a distinct minority, the faster speeds could open the door for preliminary reads or image demonstrations on smartphones and iPads.

Verizon Wireless, the nation’s largest wireless provider, could be the first out of the gate with their new fourth-generation (4G) network, launching in 38 U.S. markets by the end of the year. Users will be able to download 5 to 12 megabits per second and upload between 2 and 5 Mbps.

The 4G cellular wireless service is expected to provide a comprehensive and secure all-IP-based solution whereby ultrabroadband Internet access, gaming services, and streamlined multimedia may be provided to users. It’s not unique to Verizon, but a direction other wireless providers are moving in, as well.

“For on-call radiologists, this may be useful if they need to do a quick preliminary evaluation of imaging. But diagnostic resolution is still needed at a desktop-based computer in the end,” said Dr. Garry Choy, founder of RadRounds, a radiology networking site. “I use my cellphone and iPad for images, but not to interpret them. I demonstrate images to colleagues or patients.”

Read more about what 4G means for radiology and teleradiology on DiagnosticImaging.com.