Design and prototyping of the web-based teleradiology system. Case study of Rwandan hospitals

Abstract

The shortage of specialists who possess the expertise to accurately read and interpret CT-scan, MRI, and some X-ray images poses a significant challenge in the current healthcare system in Rwanda. This shortage results in an increased workload for the designated specialists, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, decreased quality of care, and increased costs to both patients and healthcare providers. Teleradiology is a solution that can help to address this challenge. Teleradiology allows radiologists to read and interpret medical images from remote locations including but not limited to district hospitals. This research study describes the design and implementation of a web based teleradiology system prototype designed for Rwandan hospitals, ranging from district to referral levels. The system was developed using the MERN stack, a popular choice for developing web applications and it is designed to be scalable, safe, and user-friendly. The project progresses through several phases, including literature review, needs assessment, and the creation of a web application prototype. This study helps to advance teleradiology in Rwanda by increasing access to specialized expertise, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, and encouraging collaborative healthcare practices.