The next issues to tackle are efficacy , cost analysis, and how this technology fits into the workflow of a radiology office. In fact, as a rule the smaller the calcifications, the more likelihood they indicate early breast cancer. Thus, the resolving power of the image scanner and display, the compression technology used, and the dependability of accurate transfer, are critical since the loss of even a few pixels of data can lead to misdiagnosis, with serious clinical and legal repercussions. The scanning resolution of 50 microns should be entirely adequate for mammography, but controlled studies must still be done. The repeated transfer of images under varying weather conditions without data loss indicates a robust technology.
Cost is a serious issue.
In the foreseeable future, the high data transmission needs and equipment costs of running a telemammography operation will necessitate an extremely efficient, high-volume operation. Because teleradiology has different time-motion and training parameters than standard radiology, it will take some serious study to determine whether in fact radiologists can read studies quickly and confidently enough to enable them to practice cost effective medicine. Conclusion Telemammography has been shown to be feasible, and could provide a critical link in access to preventive cancer care for millions of underserved, primarily rural women. Especially important is the rapid turnaround time for mammograms. This would enable suspicious lesions to be evaluated immediately, without requiring a return visit and the subsequent anxiety and possible delay in final diagnosis and treatment.