What is OpenREM?
OpenREM is an open-source, web-based application designed for tracking and managing radiation exposure in medical imaging. It is specifically tailored for use in radiology departments, allowing for the monitoring and recording of radiation doses from various imaging modalities, including digital radiography, computed tomography (CT), and fluoroscopy.
Main Features of OpenREM
Some of the key features of OpenREM include:
- Data Import and Export: OpenREM allows for the import of radiation dose data from various sources, including DICOM headers and Modality Performed Procedure Step (MPPS) messages. Data can also be exported in various formats, including CSV and JSON.
- Dose Tracking and Reporting: OpenREM provides a range of tools for tracking and reporting radiation doses, including dose histograms, dose maps, and customizable reports.
- Alerting and Notification: OpenREM includes an alerting and notification system, which allows users to set custom thresholds for radiation doses and receive alerts when these thresholds are exceeded.
Installation Guide
System Requirements
Before installing OpenREM, ensure that your system meets the following requirements:
- Operating System: OpenREM is compatible with Windows, Linux, and macOS.
- Database: OpenREM requires a PostgreSQL database.
- Web Server: OpenREM can be run on a variety of web servers, including Apache and Nginx.
Installation Steps
Follow these steps to install OpenREM:
- Download the OpenREM software package from the official OpenREM website.
- Extract the software package to a directory on your system.
- Create a new PostgreSQL database and user for OpenREM.
- Configure the OpenREM settings file to point to your database and web server.
- Start the OpenREM web server and access the application through a web browser.
Backup Strategy with Dedupe Archives and Retention
Why Backup is Important
Regular backups are essential for ensuring the integrity and availability of your OpenREM data. By implementing a robust backup strategy, you can protect your data against hardware failure, software corruption, and user error.
Using Dedupe Archives and Retention
OpenREM includes built-in support for dedupe archives and retention, which allows you to store multiple versions of your data in a single archive file.
| Retention Policy | Description |
|---|---|
| Daily | Store a daily backup of your OpenREM data for 7 days. |
| Weekly | Store a weekly backup of your OpenREM data for 4 weeks. |
| Monthly | Store a monthly backup of your OpenREM data for 12 months. |
OpenREM vs OpenEMR
Overview of OpenEMR
OpenEMR is an open-source electronic medical record (EMR) system designed for use in medical practices and hospitals.
Key Differences
While both OpenREM and OpenEMR are open-source medical software applications, they serve distinct purposes and have different features.
- Focus: OpenREM is focused on radiation dose tracking and management, while OpenEMR is a comprehensive EMR system.
- Features: OpenREM includes features such as dose tracking and reporting, while OpenEMR includes features such as patient scheduling and billing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of OpenREM?
OpenREM is free to download and use, with no licensing fees or costs.
How do I get started with OpenREM?
Start by downloading the OpenREM software package from the official OpenREM website, and follow the installation guide.
What kind of support is available for OpenREM?
OpenREM includes a range of support resources, including documentation, forums, and email support.
