Planning for a multi-imaging center picture archiving and communications system

There are fundamental differences in planning and configuring a picture archiving and communications system (PACS) for a multisite imaging practice as compared to a hospital-based radiology department. In the for-profit, multi-imaging center environment, return on investment is more critical and the distributed nature of radiology operations presents complex communications, infrastructure, archiving, workflow, and distribution requirements. This article discusses desired outcomes for a multi-imaging center PACS and the planning, functional, technical, and support requirements necessary to achieve those outcomes.