Clinical implications of teleradiology in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases: improving rheumatic care

Rheumatol Int. 2025 Feb 13;45(3):51. doi: 10.1007/s00296-025-05810-w.

ABSTRACT

Teleradiology, the transmission of radiologic images for remote assessment and consultation, has transformed modern medical care by mitigating geographical inequities and improving diagnostic accuracy. This technology employs telecommunications, digital imaging, and data-sharing systems developments to deliver swift and precise image analysis across various healthcare environments. Teleradiology has been essential in identifying and controlling diseases, including osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and spondyloarthritis, especially in musculoskeletal radiology and rheumatology. The combination of teleradiology and telemedicine has transformed multidisciplinary cooperation, enhancing communication among radiologists, rheumatologists, and other healthcare practitioners to provide patient-centered treatment. It has markedly enhanced access to highly specialized knowledge, especially in rural and disadvantaged areas, facilitating prompt consultations and alleviating patient travel constraints. However, despite its benefits, teleradiology encounters several challenges, including standardization issues, ethical dilemmas, and infrastructure constraints. The absence of uniform standards and inequalities in access to high-speed Internet and digital health records impede extensive implementation. Addressing these constraints is crucial to fully utilizing teleradiology's potential in musculoskeletal and rheumatic care. This article highlights the transformational potential of teleradiology and its incorporation into telemedicine for musculoskeletal and rheumatological treatment. Teleradiology is set to enhance global healthcare delivery by addressing disparities in healthcare access, fostering multidisciplinary cooperation, and utilizing advanced technologies. It underscores the necessity for ongoing innovation and investment in infrastructure, education, and standards to optimize the advantages of this crucial technology and guarantee equitable, efficient, and high-quality care for all patients.

PMID:39945826 | DOI:10.1007/s00296-025-05810-w