by
Gus Iversen, Editor in Chief | August 18, 2015
MG: Zetta’s requirement to make Z-Dose29 noninvasive to the CT scanner was the most challenging aspect of the development. We did not want to make changes to CT scanner’s software or hardware. To achieve this goal, our technical team were tasked to think outside the box and delivered the perfect solution making CT scanners comply with the XR-29 requirements.
HCB News: Besides allowing for compliance (and better reimbursement to the facility) how can Z-Dose29 lead to better care for patients?
MG: Z-Dose29 notifies and alerts the CT operator (prior to scanning) when the predefined dose threshold is going to be exceeded. This helps the healthcare provider to make decisions about x-ray exposure to the patient and make adjustments as they see appropriate prior to scanning the patient. Z-Dose29 automatically collects and records dose data from the scanner and places it in the hands of the healthcare provider to learn more about their scanning practices for one CT or multiple CTs in different facilities. Also, Z-Dose29 is configured to send this data (anonymized) to the DIR to include it in the national registry for comparison and recording.
HCB News: Are there any regulatory challenges that have been met, or will need to be met, in order for CMS to honor Z-Dose29 for XR-29 compliance?
MG: Throughout the development of Z-Dose29 we closely followed the attributes of the NEMA XR-29 standard and MITA’s SmartDose whitepapers. We are confident that CMS will recognize Z-Dose29 as the viable solution for the arising concerns of healthcare providers regarding the replacement of their perfectly operational CT scanners with newer ones. Z-Dose29 offers the answers to the attributes this standard has mandated to date.
HCB News: What will be the most important aspect of Z-Dose29?
MG: Healthcare providers do not need to replace their CT scanners with the latest models. Z-Dose29 makes these CT scanners conforming to the four attributes of the XR-29 standard. Z-Dose29 is automated and it is vendor-neutral; it works with GE, Siemens, Philips and Toshiba CT scanners.
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