Next-generation medical imaging app helps you share diagnostic images

MIM Software , a global provider of medical imaging software, has launched VueMe, a new patient-facing app that enables them to view and share diagnostic images from their doctors or specialists with other healthcare professionals. Designed for touch devices such as iPad, iPhone and iPod, the app is now available for free download on the iTunes App Store.

"When we first launched mobile MIM, we knew it would be a game-changer for the medical community," said Mark Cain, CTO of MIM Software. "We also recognized the importance of empowering patients to see and control their own medical data, which is why we created the VueMe app. The iOS platform continues to grow at an incredible pace, and VueMe will continue our legacy of quality and innovation for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch devices."

The FDA approved MIM's mobile app earlier this year and issued a 510(k) license, and then MIM Software's mobile version of MIM was officially launched, claiming it is the first FDA-approved diagnostic radiology app. The mobile version of MIM first landed on Apple's AppStore in 2008, but MIM received feedback from the FDA that the app needed a 510(k) license. It was not until early 2011 that the US FDA announced that the app had received a license.

MIM also announced MIMcloud 2.0 at the same time as VueMe. MIMcloud is an Internet-based service that is optimized to meet the needs of both MIMvueMe and mobile users. When using MIMcloud, all data transfer and storage is encrypted to ensure security and protect patient privacy. Data transfer can also be done without MIMcloud, and patients can initiate secure and instant image data transfer directly to another iPad, iPhone or iPod touch, whether it is a doctor or a family member using the VueMe application.

The way patients upload images to the VueMe app seems a little circuitous: "Patients have the right to request copies of their X-rays and other scans on CD. DICOM files can be easily uploaded from the patient's computer to an iPad, iPhone or iPod," MIM reports. "The first three image uploads are free," but patients will be charged $1 for each additional upload. Once images are uploaded, patients can also transfer files to other Apple iOS devices through the VueMe app.