An organized pilot program promoting web access to picture archiving and communications system data: emphasis on offices outside the host institution

A formal Pilot Program for Web-based access to a host picture archiving and communication system (PACS) can augment the transition to filmless radiology. Beyond the technical issues of PCs and networks, appropriate legal input and documentation is necessary. While it is important to be in line with overall institutional priorities with regard to online access strategies, it is important to recognize that the Radiology Department has the greatest stake in successfully going filmless, and that it is incumbent upon the Radiology Department itself to take on outreach efforts to the medical community at large. The MMC Web Access Pilot Project has been successful in helping key non-MMC offices overcome the issues associated with preparing for and mastering Web access to PACS images. The benefit has been mutual, and MMC is now able to provide better advice to new offices that are coming online, as well as sharpening its focus on logistical issues that need to be resolved if we are to eliminate film from medical practice.