Automated radiographic report generation using barcode technology.

Barcode reporting is a method of automated report preparation made possible by advancing computer technology, which may improve radiographic services and reduce their costs. This reporting method for normal examinations in a hospital-based radiology practice has been well accepted by radiology staff and has encouraged further applications. A free-text barcode system for reporting mammographic examinations subsequently has been developed and has further reduced dependency on transcription services, with little or no increase in radiologist's workload. Most radiologists in the department with the system believe it has had a positive impact on radiographic services, and almost two-thirds of them would consider using this kind of reporting system in a private-practice setting.