Environmental considerations
Hardcopy film is highly environmentally unfriendly. With the growing use of digital imaging, I-MED Radiology Network gives doctors the opportunity to lower the impact on the environment by choosing not to receive hard copy films and to replace them with electronic reports and images – in other words, go “filmless”.
Environmental considerations
Hardcopy film is highly environmentally unfriendly. With the growing use of digital imaging, I-MED Radiology Network gives doctors the opportunity to lower the impact on the environment by choosing not to receive hard copy films and to replace them with electronic reports and images – in other words, go “filmless”.
The move to digital imaging has been a major step forward for the environment, as the production, exposure, development and disposal of X-ray film consumes both hazardous chemicals and valuable resources.
What if I want a copy of the films for my own reference or for on referral to a specialist?
You can still request films at the time of your examination or anytime in the future by contacting any of our clinics. If post examination, please provide 24 hours notice prior to the time you require the films.
Where are my images kept?
Your digital images are stored electronically on our secure PACS (Picture and Archiving Communication System). Our computer servers are located in a secure and environmentally controlled data centre to ensure they are protected from fire, water and electrical failure so your patient records are easily accessible at all times.
Will my images be kept safe and private?
Yes. I-MED Radiology takes your privacy and the security of your medical records very seriously. We have implemented a sophisticated electronic image delivery system where the information is encrypted and can only be accessed with a secure password by referring doctors.
theatersHow do I request films in the future?
- Step 1 Contact the clinic at least 24 hours prior to the time you need your films.
- Step 2 Request a copy of the relevant films and advise your preferred clinic for collection.
- Step 3 If collecting in person, proof of identification and a signature will be required at the clinic. If a patient agent or carer is collecting films on your behalf, he/she will be required to provide a letter from you authorizing collection. They will also need to provide identification. This is to help protect your privacy.
Recycling old films
If you do have some old medical imaging films at home, did you know that they can be recycled? During the recycling process the films are heated to temperatures in excess of 1,000 degrees Celsius to extract silver. The silver is then used to make jewellery, electrical components, and to silver plate utensils. It can also be used as solder. You can drop unwanted films from any medical imaging procedure in to your closest I-MED Radiology clinic to be confidentially recycled.
Please note our clinics in South Tasmania are unable to receive film for recycling. Please contact your local waste management for more information on how to recycle old film.