Who is responsible for verifying the accuracy of patient identifiers in DICOM headers before an exam?

The technologist is responsible for verifying the accuracy of patient identifiers in DICOM headers before an exam. This is a critical step in ensuring that imaging studies are correctly associated with the right patient, which directly affects patient safety and the integrity of medical records. By confirming that the DICOM headers match the patient's information provided (like name, date of birth, and medical record number), the technologist plays a pivotal role in preventing misidentification and potential errors in diagnosis and treatment.

In a clinical setting, it's essential that the person who operates the imaging equipment and conducts the exam checks that the data is correct. This accountability helps maintain high standards of care and supports the overall quality assurance processes within the radiology department. The technologist's direct interaction with the DICOM images and the patient positions them as the frontline protector against incorrect patient data being used in imaging evaluations.