From PACS to Web-based ePR system with image distribution for enterprise-level filmless healthcare delivery

Abstract

The concept of PACS (picture archiving and communication system) was initiated in 1982 during the SPIE medical imaging conference in New Port Beach, CA. Since then PACS has been matured to become an everyday clinical tool for image archiving, communication, display, and review. This paper follows the continuous development of PACS technology including Web-based PACS, PACS and ePR (electronic patient record), enterprise PACS to ePR with image distribution (ID). The concept of large-scale Web-based enterprise PACS and ePR with image distribution is presented along with its implementation, clinical deployment, and operation. The Hong Kong Hospital Authority's (HKHA) integration of its home-grown clinical management system (CMS) with PACS and ePR with image distribution is used as a case study. The current concept and design criteria of the HKHA enterprise integration of the CMS, PACS, and ePR-ID for filmless healthcare delivery are discussed, followed by its work-in-progress and current status.

An Evaluation Protocol for Picture Archiving and Communication System: a Systematic Review

“…As elaborated by previous researchers ( 12 , 13 ), data compression can impact PACS, both in short-term and long-term data, and it can reduce the file size for exchange among users. Although this could negatively impact the quality of images, the rate and method of image compression were addressed in this review and included in the PACS evaluation protocol.…”

“…Other studies ( 12 , 18 , 19 ), have strongly suggested the use of such system network as client servers or web-based architecture, using ATM, Ethernet and/or TCP/IP protocols. Hence the inclusion of these network elements in our PACS evaluation protocol among the essential prerequisites.…”

“…Hence the inclusion of these network elements in our PACS evaluation protocol among the essential prerequisites. It is evident that communication protocols are of a great importance for the optimal operation besides the architecture issue ( 12 ). One study has suggested that cloud computing might be considered as a network architecture ( 20 ); however, ample evidence in support of this idea, especially from developing nations, were lacking at the time this review was being conducted.…”

“…Studies have emphasized the proper use of communication links for the optimal operation of user-equipment interface in PACS ( 20 , 25 ). Other studies ( 12 , 21 , 22 , 26 ) recommend that data security to be observed according to HIPPA regulations. This issue was addressed heavily in the present review and was included in the evaluation protocol.…”

An optimized web-based approach for collaborative stereoscopic medical visualization

“…Manipulating interactive remote visualizations via web-based systems that are similar to modern hospital information systems would enhance the accessibility even further 3. We assert that a system that uses only standard web browsers with no added software provides universal access to remote visualization with highest client mobility.…”