Managing a catheterization laboratory requires both attention to basic managerial principles and consideration of the difficulties that operating a highly specialized, state-of-the-art technical facility presents. Paying careful attention to communication, staff development, and budgeting will help avert potential problems.
The feasibility of sending echocardiographic tracings to distant places by means of telephonic facsimile equipment has been investigated, and the quality of the transmitted copies was found to be acceptable. Three models were used for transmission, and although they presently have some technical limitations, use of satellites promises to enhance their capacity. Use of the already available technology will allow remotely located echocardiographers to benefit from the expertise of consultants in this field. Rapid telephonic access to referral centers, especially for difficult cases, will prevent potential interpretation errors and will give the referring physicians another tool for upgrading their interpretative skills. Transmission of echocardiographic tracings could thus become another means of continuing medical education in a constantly evolving field.
As we come more and more to depend on computers, we need assurance of their reliability and accuracy. Toward this end, a comparison of computer and manual analyses of hemodynamic data was undertaken. The results, reported here, support computer reliability.
This laboratory, equipped to perform more than a score of different tests, provides diagnostic support for 125 board-certified physicians in joint private practice and for the 320-bed Virginia Mason Hospital. Nearly half of the 50 outpatients seen each day in the laboratory have been referred by physicians outside the Seattle area.
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