How does poor image quality affect patient care?

Poor image quality can significantly impact patient care primarily because it may lead to incorrect diagnoses and treatments. High-quality medical imaging is essential for accurately identifying the presence, location, and extent of diseases or injuries. When images are unclear—due to issues such as inadequate resolution, improper technique, or equipment malfunction—healthcare providers may misinterpret the findings. This can result in misdiagnosis, delaying the appropriate treatment or directing the patient towards ineffective or unnecessary interventions.

Additionally, poor image quality can lead to unnecessary follow-up imaging or tests as physicians attempt to clarify ambiguous results, which can increase patient anxiety, burden healthcare resources, and extend the time to receive definitive care. In some cases, serious conditions may go undetected, which can have profound consequences for the patient's health and outcomes. Thus, maintaining high standards of image quality is crucial in ensuring effective patient management and safety.