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Application service providers: an alternative approach to PACS implementation.
Journal of Digital Imaging
|April 20, 2001
Summary
Application service providers (ASPs) offer a solution for radiology practices facing challenges with filmless imaging adoption. This model allows outsourcing of Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) on a fee-per-use basis, benefiting smaller hospitals.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Health Informatics
- Information Technology
Background:
- Filmless imaging adoption in radiology is hindered by concerns over technology obsolescence, capital limitations, and inadequate IT infrastructure.
- Traditional Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) acquisition presents significant financial and operational hurdles for many radiology practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the economic and operational aspects of Application Service Providers (ASPs) as an alternative to traditional PACS acquisition.
- To identify the potential benefits and limitations of the ASP model for radiology practices, particularly smaller institutions.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of economic and operational issues related to ASPs in the context of PACS.
- Analysis of the fee-per-use model and its implications for IT outsourcing in radiology.
Main Results:
- ASPs provide a flexible, fee-per-use model for PACS, ideal for small to medium-sized hospitals with limited IT resources.
- This model allows for scalable services and potential economies of scale as ASP vendor customer bases grow.
Conclusions:
- ASPs present a viable alternative for PACS acquisition, addressing key adoption barriers in radiology.
- The ASP model offers economic advantages and operational flexibility, with potential for significant future implications in medical imaging IT.