What could be a consequence of inadequate quality control in imaging processes?

Inadequate quality control in imaging processes can lead to inconsistent image quality, which directly impacts diagnostic accuracy. When imaging does not meet the established quality standards, the resulting images may be unclear or misleading, making it difficult for healthcare professionals to correctly interpret the images. This inconsistency increases the likelihood of misdiagnosis, where conditions may be overlooked or incorrectly identified, ultimately affecting patient care and treatment outcomes.

While operational costs may increase due to needed repeat imaging sessions and lost time related to handling errors, the most immediate and critical consequence of inadequate quality control is the potential for misdiagnosis stemming from poor-quality images.