Expansion of the teleradiology market appears to be slowing, according to a study to be published in the November issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology.
Researchers analyzing data from the American College of Radiology found that the number of radiology practices using external, off-hours teleradiology services increased to 44% from 15% between 2003 and 2007, but continued growth has slowed in recent years despite expectations of further expansion. The study also notes that there has been no significant adoption of teleradiology services among nonmetropolitan practices, and few providers appear to be using the services for daytime reads or subspecialty interpretations.
Use of teleradiology services has grown most significantly among small, city-based practices that don't serve hospitals. The services have seen little growth in use by academic and other large radiology practices, the study found. Researchers didn't speculate on the cause of the slowed adoption, but said further studies are needed to clarify future teleradiology use trends.
