Integrating digital systems: commitment and collaboration.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging Technology
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Ball Memorial Hospital's radiology department was previously entirely film-based.
• The transition to digital imaging was driven by the need to support a new all-digital emergency department (ED).
• The project aimed to integrate advanced imaging technologies and improve image accessibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the process and outcomes of a hospital-wide transition to digital radiology.
• To evaluate the impact and cost-effectiveness of implementing picture archiving and communication systems (PACS), digital radiography (DR), and computed radiography (CR).
• To assess the integration of new digital technologies with existing hospital information systems.

Main Methods:

• Formed an internal implementation team and hired an independent consultant.
• Selected a single vendor for PACS, DR, CR, and project management.
• Installed DR in the ED for trauma exams and CR systems in the radiology department.
• Utilized a web-based PACS for image distribution to referring physicians and integrated PACS with the radiology information system (RIS).

Main Results:

• The hospital's imaging services, excluding mammography, are now digital.
• Technologists readily adopted the CR and DR systems.
• Web-based PACS distribution successfully transmits images to hospital computers and 150 remote referring physicians.
• The integration of PACS and RIS was smooth.
• Professional project management facilitated implementation and user training.

Conclusions:

• The digital conversion, supported by a single vendor and professional project management, was successful.
• The implementation of PACS, DR, and CR enhanced imaging services and image accessibility.
• Experienced management and adequate training are critical for successful digital conversion in radiology departments.