Conformance, Calibration, QC and QA

All healthcare institutions need to be capable of performing the complete functions of Conformance, Calibration, Quality Control and Quality Assurance on their displays. Our application engineers can help implement a comprehensive testing program, establishing how each element gets turned into a function and ensuring how those functions are implemented throughout each department.

Conformance

Conformance parameters (and their associated margins of error) must be defined for each type of display system. These parameters should be based upon a strict set of guidelines (DICOM, ACR, AAPM TG18, etc.) and include a minimum of:

• Peak Brightness Stability
• Black Level
• DICOM Compliance (LUM Value and FIT Value)
• Luminance Uniformity
• Standard Image Assessment, etc.

Measurement

Each conformance parameter must be measured using a methodology that ensures the accuracy, repeatability and soundness of each measurement test.

Data Collection

The process for collecting, logging and presenting data in a manner that allows for analysis of past performance and helps predicts future failure must be detailed.

Corrective Action

In the event any conformance test fails, it is necessary to have clear definitions of the necessary corrective actions that must be taken to restore the system.

Calibration

Deviations in conformance parameters must be corrected (or calibrated) to ensure the system's performance meets the requirements defined for acceptable use in diagnostic imaging.

Quality Control (QC)

The correct frequency for each test must be maintained to limit conformance failures and ensure display performance is maintained throughout the system's life.

Quality Assurance (QA)

Once conformance parameters are established, measurement methodology determined, data collection rules defined, corrective action and calibration routines implemented, and testing schedules put into place, the next step is to assure your medical imaging display performance meets your institution's expectation 100% of the time.