Benefits of using microcomputers to monitor imaging equipment service in a radiology department

A microcomputer system to monitor imaging equipment service has been developed and implemented. This was accomplished by carefully defining the problems associated with servicing a wide variety of imaging equipment, constructing a protocol, and conducting a lengthy trial without the use of microcomputers. This permitted all of the tasks performed in implementing a microcomputer system to be accomplished without affecting foreground activity and identified the means of implementing the system without reducing equipment services or increasing personnel. The cost and benefits of this approach are summarized. It is shown that since the system has been implemented there have been savings in clerical personnel and improved response to emergency service requests, as well as increased effectiveness of preventive maintenance. The automated system provides current data on the relationship of maintenance problems and related costs, thereby identifying specific areas for preventive measures that increase efficiency and save money