Reports of pain in the lower back and neck are becoming more common among a large number of America’s radiologists, according to a recent report. Many of these radiologists across Georgia and the United States believe that the increase in pain is due to the heavy use of Picture Archiving and Communication Systems, also known as PACS.
According to the workplace survey commissioned by the American College of Radiology, nearly one out of every three radiologists report lower back or neck pain. These findings represent an increase from years past. Some experts believe that heavy reliance on PACS is partly to blame.
According to a review in the Journal of American College of Radiology, PACS has benefited radiologists by increasing scheduling and workflow efficiency as well as standardizing reporting and billing. The result is that most radiologists can do their jobs with less face-to-face contact with their patients. The downside, however, is that reliance on PACS has greatly increased the amount of time a radiologist spends on computer-based work. The journal also suggests that more extended hours behind a desk in awkward positions and a failure to use ergonomic chairs has led to the increase in musculoskeletal injuries among radiologists.
Workplace injuries aren’t just limited to machinery mishaps and slip and falls inside factories. Repetitive stress can lead to debilitating neck and back pain for many individuals who work in the medical profession. A person who develops neck or back pain while on the job may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. An attorney with experience in workers’ compensation law may be able to help that individual navigate the claims process and recover damages. In some cases, a successful workers’ compensation claim can cover medical bills, lost wages and even pain and suffering.
