How imaging departments are using digital solutions to drive efficiency, consistency and better patient experience
As health systems continue to face staffing shortages and operational strain, radiology departments are under growing pressure to deliver more—without compromising quality or patient outcomes. For the first time in nearly two decades, hospital and practice CEOs have named workforce shortages as their top concern, a challenge that is especially acute in imaging, where technologists and radiologists must manage high volumes, complex imaging protocols and multi-site coordination.
Radiology leaders are now tasked with optimizing imaging fleet utilization, improving scan quality, retaining staff, and delivering care efficiently across increasingly complex networks. These demands are compounded by cost constraints and inconsistent expertise, particularly in large, distributed health systems. In this environment, collaboration and access to shared clinical knowledge are more critical than ever.
Digital solutions are accelerating operational efficiency
Seventy-three percent of radiology departments cite operational efficiency as their biggest challenge.[1] Digital solutions are emerging as key enablers—and accelerators—of transformation. Platforms like GE HealthCare’s Imaging 360 are helping radiology teams adopt a unified, data-driven approach to operations, turning complexity into strategic advantage.
“GE HealthCare is committed to supporting radiology as a strategic function within healthcare systems,” says Stephanie Conserette, CMO, Platforming and Solutions at GE HealthCare. “Digital tools like Imaging 360 are essential for meeting both clinical and operational goals. Imaging 360, specifically, empowers radiology teams to deliver consistent, high-quality care while navigating workforce constraints and infrastructure challenges. By unlocking access to data and expertise, we can help radiology departments operate more efficiently and improve the experience for both patients and providers.”
Imaging 360 provides a comprehensive view of radiology operations across multiple sites, enabling administrators to monitor scanner utilization, continuous workflow improvement, and imaging protocol consistency. These insights help optimize resource allocation, reduce bottlenecks and improve throughput—key steps toward intelligent fleet management and streamlined planning.
The platform analytics help identify patterns in workflow inefficiencies, enabling managers to proactively adjust schedules, redeploy staff, or fine-tune protocols to maximize throughput. For large, multi-site health systems, the ability to make system-wide modifications based on data represents a significant step toward intelligent fleet management and streamlined resource planning.
“We recognized early on that embracing technology was the key to overcoming industry challenges. By building a flexible, technology-driven system that incorporates remote services and data analytics, we have been able to deliver efficient, high-quality care despite constraints. And by doing so, we are effectively bridging the gap between limited resources and growing demands,” said Dr. Tobias Deutsch, Radiologist, Founder & Managing Director, Miungo medical GmbH
Dr. Deutsch continued to share the impact that Imaging 360 has had on his facility. “We were able to increase our exam slots by 31% by optimizing protocols, which provided patients more access to imaging and reduced patient wait times from 4 days to 1 day.”[2]
Standardizing imaging protocols ensures consistent quality of care
Consistency is essential in radiology. When scan protocols vary widely across sites—or even among technologists—suboptimal or repeated exams can occur. Radiology reports that 35% of studies are repeated daily.[3] These repeat scans can lead to delayed diagnoses and increased patient burden.
Imaging 360 helps radiology departments standardize imaging protocols across their fleet, giving technologists access to the latest parameters and best practices. This reduces variability, improves diagnostic confidence, and minimizes workflow interruptions. For a radiology operation as large as Alliance Medical UK, standardization is essential to their imaging services to ensure consistency across their network and achieve their goal of high-quality imaging services and patient satisfaction.
Alliance Medical reduced their MRI protocols by 84%, which reduced protocol variability and ensured consistent quality of care. With this optimized protocol system, over 410 MRI exam slots were added per month, increasing access to care for patients.[4]
Standardization also supports longitudinal care. When images are consistent, clinicians can more accurately compare scans over time to guide treatment decisions. Imaging 360 enables department leadership to remotely evaluate protocol adherence, allowing teams to identify deviations and provide targeted training without needing to visit each site.
Enabling remote scanning to support staff and enable flexibility6
With many radiology departments reporting staffing shortages, digital tools are helping bridge the expertise gap. [5] Imaging 360 supports peer-to-peer collaboration through remote scan assistance, using either nCommand Lite by IONIC Health or Digital Expert Access with remote scanning for MR by GE HealthCare, allowing experienced technologists to guide colleagues at other locations. [6]
This flexibility enables departments to deploy senior staff where they’re needed most—physically or virtually—while helping newer technologists build confidence and accuracy. Remote scan assistance also supports continuity of care, enabling staff to consult with subspecialists, share scan results, and align care strategies in real time.
Miungo Medical has implemented a “co-pilot” system, where radiographers operate scanners remotely across multiple locations. “This model has helped us build a quality cluster of radiographers and maintain operability,” said Dr. Deutsch. “It also gives our staff the flexibility of a four-day workweek.”
Building a more integrated imaging ecosystem
Radiology’s digital transformation is no longer about isolated tools or short-term fixes. It’s about building a connected, resilient, and patient-centered imaging ecosystem. Platforms like Imaging 360 align people, processes and technology to deliver consistent, efficient and high-quality imaging care.
Disclaimers:
Results may vary. The statements by GE HealthCare customers are based on their opinions and results achieved in their unique setting. Since there is no “typical” facility and many variables exist (i.e., size, case mix, etc.), there can be no guarantee that other customers will achieve the same results.
Not all products or features are available in all geographical areas. Check with your local GE HealthCare representative for availability in your country.
References
[1] Q: “What do you believe the main challenges in your department will be in the next 1-3 years?” N=1151; GE Data and Market Research JB19471XX.
[2] Results obtained from Miungo, Germany, JB31439XX
[3] Lacson, Ronilda, et al. “Closing the Loop on Unscheduled Diagnostic Imaging Orders: A Systems-Based Approach.” Journal of the American College of Radiology 18, no. 1 (2021): 60-67. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacr.2020.09.031.
[4] Results obtained from Alliance Medical UK JB31703XX
[5] PANNER, MORRIS. “Minding the Gap: Strategies to Address the Growing Radiology Shortage.” Imaging Technology News, July 13, 2023. https://www.itnonline.com/article/minding-gap-strategies-address-growing-radiology-shortage.
[6] Remote scanning, training, and collaboration can be fulfilled by either nCommand™ Lite by IONIC Health or Digital Expert Access with Remote Scanning for MR by GE HealthCare.
