In order to maximize the effectiveness of patient care they provide, healthcare facilities require instantaneous and smooth access to patient information 24/7, 365-days-a-year. This includes x-ray images and all the related data. The combination of PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) and digital x-ray equipment can certainly help to meet that need.
The combination of PACS and digital x-ray equipment can provide a whole host of advantages, with the prominent ones being:
- Diagnostic images can be stored in digital form instead of hard-copy images that are developed chemically.
- Puts vital patient data atphysicians’ fingertips by making it instantly accessible across all workstations.
- Increases the speed of healthcare delivery.
- Streamlines workflow.
Another noteworthy advantage of storing digital radiography data on a PACS is the enhanced security – a significant improvement over conventional images which require physical storage..
PACS are rapidly becoming a cornerstone of data management in healthcare facilities across the world. Let’s delve into some of the advantages of storing digital X-ray images in a PACS
More Efficient Development and Storage
Perhaps the most significant advantage digital x-ray systems offer is that they eliminate the need to chemically develop diagnostic images. Transitioning to digital x-ray equipment and integrating a PACS saves time that would have otherwise been spent on retrieving, filing and developing the images. It also saves resources that would have been spent on procuring the chemicals required for developing the images and the supplies needed to store them, such as filing cabinets, envelopes, etc.
Improved Security
Healthcare facilities often struggle to remain in compliance with HIPAA standards that are designed to protect patient confidentiality. It can be quite labor-intensive and complicated, particularly if you’re dealing with huge quantities of data and information that are stored in a mixed bag of both physical and digital records.
The probability of human error is high in such conditions, which can lead to a violation of HIPAA patient confidentiality standards. However, when patient images data is stored digitally, it’s easier to maintain a high level of security. The following security measures can be deployed:
- Passwords
- Encryptions
- Layered access clearance
We’re sure that you’ll agree that these measures are much more secure than having thousands of physical files in hundreds of filing cabinets..
If you’re looking for state of the art digital radiology equipment and medical imaging equipment, get in touch with us at ExamVue. We have been providing top quality digital image solutions and equipment for nearly 4 decades.
