A European Medical Network
Bone-disorder experts from across Europe have turned to the web in a unique alliance that will improve patient care.
The European Skeletal Dysplasia Network (ESDN), developed by The University of Manchester, now links eight institutions in six different countries by means of a secure web portal. The hi-tech referral system means a patient, say, in Italy could have their case referred to a bone specialist in Belgium and a genetics expert in Manchester, while a laboratory in Switzerland confirms the diagnosis.
The network allows a doctor to submit a description and x-ray images of their ppatient to the portal, which are then referred to a group of specialists connected through an electronic discussion forum who can consider the case.
"There is no one centre with all the necessary experience or facilities to cope with the diagnosis of so many types of bone disorders," said project administrator Jacky Taylor, who is based at the National Genetics Reference Laboratory in Manchester. "There are more than 200 different kinds of complaints ranging from mild to life-threatening, so clinicians face significant problems identifying which condition their patient has. This web-based, case-management system overcomes geographical barriers and brings together the scarce clinical resources for these rare conditions. By providing efficient access to a pan-European network of experts and genetic-testing facilities, doctors can make accurate diagnoses enabling patients to receive the best treatment for their particular condition. The system is completely novel and the successful delivery of the complex IT project is thanks to the collaborative nature of ESDN itself."
The technology behind the system was provided by Certus Technology, a young IT company with engineering and consulting experience. Dr Mike Briggs, of the Wellcome Trust Centre For Cell Matrix Research in Manchester, heads the eight partner centres, which in thhe UK also include The University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and the Central Manchester NHS Trust.
Dr Michael Wright, of the Institute of Human Genetics at The University Newcastle-upon-Tyne, added: "This is a system that works the way we work. What is interesting is that because of the system, conversations about cases are taking place that otherwise wouldn't. The information technology is facilitating the diagnosis of patients and, significantly, is bringing together this multidisciplinary group in a way that is improving understanding."
Let's hope we see more medical networks as a result of new technology.
Have your say...
Be the first to leave your comment.
Send To A Friend
Printer Friendly
Add Page To Favorites
Green Issues With Michael Wale
Apple Lovers
Michael Wale visits a Herefordshire orchard brought back to life by the public.
Spotlight
Meet 50connect's Columnists
From relationship advice to environmental issues; life as an ex-pat living in France and the highs and lows of going back to study; read the latest from our regular contributors.
Bookmark with:
Don’t know what this is?
Read the 50connect Guide To Social Bookmarking.