PACS

Picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) have replaced conventional radiographic films as the digital image-viewing hub over the past two decades and now serve as the primary communication bridge between radiologists, radiologic technologists and referring providers. PACS enables all authorized clinicians to access medical images and reports quickly, easily and from virtually any location. Some health systems have integrated PACS into the electronic medical record (EMR). Others have moved to enterprise image systems to replace radiology PACS and allow all departments to now store images and reports in one location for easier health system-wide access.

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Why PACS should be part of undergrads' medical education

Many traditional radiology courses leave out hands-on opportunities for students—something that could greatly benefit their understanding of the specialty.

SCCT aims to provide common language for CCTA use with updated guidance

The Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography has developed a new expert consensus document designed to get physicians on the same page when discussing this growing technology. 

Key trends in enterprise imaging

Radiology is going though a period of disruption with a growing radiologist shortage, decreasing reimbursements and increasing numbers of exams, making workflow efficiency a critical concern.

Cloud-based platforms could expand teleradiology access to tens of thousands of patients in need

Dedicated teleradiology services could expand quality healthcare in regions where access and staffing shortages hinder patient care the most. 

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Hospital system data sharing initiative leads to 80% of patients accessing their imaging records

The change was made to comply with the information blocking rule in the 21st Century Cures Act.

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Aycan introduces a 'mini' PACS for independent practices

The enterprise imaging system is equipped with basic features for storage and sharing, with the option to upgrade.

Ramsoft OmegaAI progressive uploading

OmegaAI adds 'progressive loading' for real-time radiology image reading

The cloud-based enterprise image system loads scan results almost instantly.

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Sectra signs $20.4M contract with university health network

The unnamed health system operates 10 hospitals and performs 2 million imaging exams each year.

Around the web

The nuclear imaging isotope shortage of molybdenum-99 may be over now that the sidelined reactor is restarting. ASNC's president says PET and new SPECT technologies helped cardiac imaging labs better weather the storm.

CMS has more than doubled the CCTA payment rate from $175 to $357.13. The move, expected to have a significant impact on the utilization of cardiac CT, received immediate praise from imaging specialists.

The newly cleared offering, AutoChamber, was designed with opportunistic screening in mind. It can evaluate many different kinds of CT images, including those originally gathered to screen patients for lung cancer. 

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