Technology
PACS
BAPTIST HEALTH has implemented a Picture Archiving and Communication
System (PACS) that is used to electronically manage and distribute
images. A Picture Archiving and Communication System is a configuration
of electronic hardware and software including infrastructure capable
of storing, retrieving, transporting, displaying and printing medical
images, such as X-rays and MRIs, throughout an organization.
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Dr. James Florez evaluates images through
the PACS system.
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The PACS will allow physicians and medical staff to quickly access
medical images, giving them faster access to potentially live-saving
information. Physicians and staff will have access to these images
from computers throughout the hospital as well as from the physician's
offices and homes.
PACS has allowed for the transition of BAPTIST HEALTH Radiology
films to a "soft-copy," filmless environment and will
improve access to images throughout the system. Images collected
from CT, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, Ultrasound, Diagnostic X-ray, Special
Procedures and Digital Fluoroscopy are currently available for viewing,
with other "ologies" to be added later (i.e., Cardiology
and Pathology).
The benefits of PACS are many, including viewing from multiple
locations, accessibility to reports, viewing images simultaneously
with other physicians, quicker image delivery and reducing the incidence
of lost films. The PACS is accessible through the internet and the
BAPTIST HEALTH Physician
Portal. Training for staff and physicians is available through
the BAPTIST HEALTH EmployeeNet Computer Based Training module or
through the radiology department.
Overview of the PACS workflow
