Integrated voice recognition and picture archiving and communication system: development and early experience

Voice recognition (VR) and picture archiving and communication system (PACS) both have advantages and disadvantages in radiologic practice. We describe a fully integrated VR/PACS system running on a single platform. Integration optimizes the positive features of both systems and creates a synergy that is not otherwise realized. The planning and development of the system is described, as well as a number of challenges that were addressed. Radiologists have viewed the process changes very positively during initial use.