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Picture Archiving and Communication System
The concept of PACS has been known in health care circles for many years, but
has not been used much until recently. PACS is an image-based information
system for the acquisition, storage, communication, archiving, display,
distribution and manipulation of radiographic images.
PACS allows physicians and clinical staff to electronically send images to
other locations, allowing them to view radiology images and reports through a
web browser. This lets us share important patient information in real time, in
essence giving the patient immediate access to specialized opinions from the
appropriate professionals. PAC images can be viewed from workstations placed in
any clinical area, including an operating room.
Over the next 5 – 10 years, the storage and database capabilities of PACS are
expected to replace actual patient x-ray films because they offer several
advantages. It allows clinicians to review past and present images, view
reports and even listen to a voice clip summary of a radiologist’s dictated
interpretation of the examination. It eliminates the need for extensive film
libraries. Images and reports will be permanently stored on CD-ROM or DVD for
retrieval. Also, a replacement copy can be made available at any time.
Another benefit of PACS technology allows integration with HIS (Hospital
Information Systems) and RIS (Radiology Information Systems) so that images can
be compared to or combined with other electronic patient data including
laboratory reports, patient records and nonradiological studies such as
electrocardiograms. This lets physicians gain quick and easy access to all
aspects of a patient’s care, thus ultimately providing better treatment.
Please e-mail the PACS administrator at ledwards@radalliance.com if you would like additional information concerning archiving services.
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