VA launches system providing patients with medical images
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has launched a new online system providing patients with access to medical images and study reports.
Accessed through the MyHealtheVet patient portal, the feature allows veterans to easily view, download and share radiology studies like x-rays, mammograms, MRIs and CTs from the VA electronic health records (EHR).
“With VA Medical Images and Reports, patients have the option of obtaining their images and reports online, eliminating the need to visit a VA facility to acquire a copy of their information,” said VA Acting Secretary Robert Wilkie. “This feature aligns with VA Blue Button’s concept, which simplifies patient access to their personal health information by allowing them to retrieve it securely online.”
Veterans will have access to their studies through the patient portal three days after verification. Following verification, veterans can view low-resolution reports online or download larger files. To view diagnostic quality images, veterans would have to download a free medical image viewer. These files can later be shared to providers and copied onto CD, DVD and USB flash drives.
Cara joined TriMed Media in 2016 and is currently a Senior Writer for Clinical Innovation & Technology. Originating from Detroit, Michigan, she holds a Bachelors in Health Communications from Grand Valley State University.