Pilot deployment of a cloud-based universal medical image repository in a large public health system: A protocol study

PLoS One. 2024 Aug 29;19(8):e0307022. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0307022. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

This paper outlines the protocol for the deployment of a cloud-based universal medical image repository system. The proposal aims not only at the deployment but also at the automatic expansion of the platform, incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) for the analysis of medical image examinations. The methodology encompasses efficient data management through a universal database, along with the deployment of various AI models designed to assist in diagnostic decision-making. By presenting this protocol, the goal is to overcome technical challenges and issues that impact all phases of the workflow, from data management to the deployment of AI models in the healthcare sector. These challenges include ethical considerations, compliance with legal regulations, establishing user trust, and ensuring data security. The system has been deployed, with a tested and validated proof of concept, possessing the capability to receive thousands of images daily and to sustain the ongoing deployment of new AI models to expedite the analysis process in medical image exams.

MeSH terms

  • Artificial Intelligence*
  • Cloud Computing*
  • Computer Security
  • Data Management / methods
  • Databases, Factual
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods
  • Humans
  • Pilot Projects
  • Public Health

Grants and funding

This study was financially and technically supported by the Institutional Development Program of the Unified Health System and Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein in the form of a grant (PROADI-SUS 01/2020, NUP: 25000.161106/2020-6), and in the form of physical and virtual computers, received by VMGP, JPQP, BCRSF, and MRCR. This study was also financially supported by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq/Brazil) in the form of a Research Productivity Fellowship (process: 301644/2022-5) awarded to researcher WPC. The funders had no additional role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.