Implementation and integration of Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) at tertiary care hospitals in India.

Vijay Kumar Tadia; Shubhang Gupta

Volume : IX, Issue : II, February - 2020

Implementation and integration of Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) at tertiary care hospitals in India.

Vijay Kumar Tadia, Shubhang Gupta

Abstract :

BACKGROUND A Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) infrastructure is a framework which helps integrating various imaging systems thereby establishing a mechanism for communication the results to the physician in a better way. METHODS A comprehensive descriptive and observational study was undertaken from May 2013 to July 2013. The study setting involved two tertiary care public hospitals. Purposive sampling was used to select Key Informants. The Key Informants included the Medical Superintendent of both the settings managed by same top management, Head of the Radio–diagnosis department, PACS engineer, Senior Technician and Head of IT department. RESULTS The workflow in the department had shown various changes before and after the conduct of a particular examination. However, the examination phase remains unchanged. The noticeable change was seen in the post examination phase between the completion of the procedure and availability of images to the radiologists and clinicians. Before PACS implementation the examination was followed by approximately an hour long process of film development which was further followed by the sorting of the previous images before the patient folder could reach the radiologist. Post PACS this had been replaced by a five minute activity of processing a plate, containing a cassette with patient details, and the screen containing image, in the CR processor and transmitting the image to PACS by a technician. CONCLUSION In order to have an effective PACS system in function, it is very important to have a need analysis regarding the same stating the requirement and the expected benefits to be achieved which in turn states the utmost need of a comprehensive business plan in place. Before planning for implementation, the team should be formulated comprising the Medical Superintendent, Administrators, Radiologists and Clinicians in equal proportion.