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Reengineering the picture archiving and communication system (PACS) process for digital imaging networks PACS
M C Horton1, T E Lewis, T V Kinsey
1Joint Imaging Technology Project Office, Fort Detrick, MD 21702-5012, USA.
Journal of Digital Imaging
|May 26, 1999
Summary
The Joint Imaging Technology Project Office (JITPO) transformed military Picture Archiving and Communications Systems (PACS) planning. This collaborative approach increased end-user involvement, saving millions and improving system standardization for the Department of Defense (DoD).
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging Informatics
- Health Systems Engineering
- Military Health Services Research
Background:
- Historically, military Picture Archiving and Communications Systems (PACS) procurement was centralized through the Medical Diagnostic Imaging Systems (MDIS) office.
- This centralized model led to challenges in decision-making, accountability, and end-user buy-in for PACS implementation.
- The need for a more collaborative and efficient process for deploying advanced imaging systems in military healthcare facilities was evident.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the reengineering of the PACS planning and implementation process within the Department of Defense (DoD).
- To detail the transition from a single-office decision model to a collaborative, consultative approach.
- To highlight the benefits and lessons learned from implementing the digital imaging networks (DIN)-PACS initiative.
Main Methods:
- The Joint Imaging Technology Project Office (JITPO) initiated a reengineered process for PACS planning and implementation.
- This involved incorporating multiple organizations and fostering a consultative method with increased end-user involvement.
- The new process focused on government-developed plans being presented to vendors, ensuring tailored responses and reducing non-standard systems.
Main Results:
- The reengineered process transformed decision-making and accountability, enhancing end-user knowledge, responsibility, and ownership of PACS.
- Collaboration with local site project managers from the outset facilitated a smoother transition to PACS.
- Significant cost savings, estimated in the millions for DoD sites, were achieved through in-house plan development and vendor-specific proposals, alongside reduced implementation of non-standard systems.
Conclusions:
- The JITPO's reengineering of the PACS process created a more efficient, accountable, and collaborative system for military healthcare facilities.
- End-user involvement is critical for successful PACS adoption and integration.
- The DIN-PACS initiative demonstrated substantial financial benefits and improved system integrity for the DoD.