Diagnostic Imaging Systems (DI)
Infoway's Diagnostic Imaging Systems Program is focused on implementation of digital storage of diagnostic images to permit clinicians to access and view images regardless of where they are located or where the test was conducted. This will enable healthcare providers to electronically collect, store, manage, distribute and view patient radiology reports and images – such as X-rays, ultrasounds, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) images – entirely in digital format, without the need for film. DI systems along with Laboratory and Drug Information systems provide the majority of clinical data required for the patient Electronic Health Record (EHR).
DI systems are contributing to improved quality of care through faster turnaround of reports, less test duplication due to lost or unavailable materials, better access to radiology services, elimination of the costs associated with film processing and handling, and immediate retrieval of images.
To be fully effective, these DI systems must be supported by modern digital archiving capabilities known as Picture Archiving and Communications Systems (PACS). These systems consist of servers, a storage subsystem, acquisition interfaces and special display stations. Because of the significant investment needed for a PACS system, a stand-alone PACS installation typically is not financially viable for small hospitals or clinics conducting less than 20,000 exams per year. Smaller facilities represent approximately 80 per cent of Canada's DI hospitals.
To enable both large and small healthcare facilities to share in the benefits of a modern DI system, Infoway is investing in projects to develop a shared DI services model. With this approach, a single PACS DI repository installed in one hospital serves as the “hub” for a regional service available to all healthcare facilities in the area, regardless of size.
List of Projects
Program Benefits
- Access
- Ability to Access Care: Reduced wait times for diagnostic imaging services.
- Availability: Increased diagnostic imaging interpretations by remote specialists.
- Quality
- Effectiveness: Improved quality of diagnostic image interpretation through the use of viewing tools and access to diagnostic imaging history.
- Productivity
- Efficiency: Reduced film and storage costs and enhanced radiologist productivity.
- Care Coordination: Increased access to images and reports across the continuum of care.
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