Opinion: a prototype for a computerized national mammography registry and tracking system using telecommunications and the Internet.

In this report, we analyze the feasability and discuss the potential benefits of using currently available technology for the wide-area registration and tracking of mammography patients. In our prototype, three dissimilar computer systems transmitted mammographic data (demographics and the results of mammograms) in a standardized format to a central data repository. Two of the three systems were dedicated computerized mammography systems and one was a general-purpose radiology information system. High-speed modems and the Internet were used to connect with the central repository, which could be queried in real time by remote users. Our results indicated that a busy mammography practice, using the slowest transmission method we tested (14-kilobaud modem), could transmit several days of mammographic data to a central repository in a matter of minutes. To implement systems that provide nation-wide mammographic tracking and follow up, more in-depth planning, development, and testing are necessary.