Technology for the continuous improvement of the quality of health care.

Since medical technology impinges on the structure, process and outcome of health care it has a profound effect on attempts to achieve improvement in this field. The present article discusses the links between medical technology and continuous quality development, with particular reference to utilization, appropriateness and cost-benefit.

Benefits of coordinated action in PACS evaluation.

PACS, a health care technology still in its developmental stage, aims to improve the management of diagnostic imaging investigations. As the technology has not been comprehensively assessed, data and facts to justify its clinical, economic and other benefits are to date insufficient. Through internationally coordinated action, it is expected to obtain a faster and more comprehensive technology assessment of PACS as well as recommendations for optimization of the system and guidelines for its rational use in various health care environments.

Big ticket health technology: is rational utilization possible?

Medical technologies that have high initial and operating costs are commonly labeled 'Big Ticket Technologies'. However, technologies with lower initial and operating costs, but which are utilized extensively in patient care, should be considered Big Ticket as well. Some of these technologies are product innovations, because they represent a new product or service.