Albany Advanced Imaging introduced the first Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) to the Capital Region. What is PACS, and how could it benefit your medical care?

Briefly, PACS collects medical imaging information (e.g., MRI scans, ultrasound images) in its original digital format, stores this data on high capacity optical disks, and displays the scan images on demand using high resolution video monitors. PACS is capable of routing imaging studies simultaneously to several different viewing locations (e.g., your doctor's office or a hospital operating room). Image storage within PACS is virtually unlimited and permanent.

PACS incorporates many important functions:

Zero image loss. Since these optical disks have enormous storage capacity, and never leave the PACS data storage compartment, your images are never lost or misplaced.

Rapid, convenient viewing by the Radiologist. During final interpretation of your imaging examination, the Radiologist can magnify selected images, change contrast level settings, and otherwise digitally manipulate the images to better detect and define potential abnormalities. The images are also available for interpretation immediately, without the delays often caused by film developing and the search for prior comparison examinations.

Multiple simultaneous viewers. Since your condition could require the input of several specialists, PACS allows physicians in widely separate locations to view your examination simultaneously.

Secure off-site image transmission. Your examination images may be electronically sent to your physician's office computer, to key areas of a hospital (e.g., the operating room), or to consulting physicians anywhere in the world. All commercially available PACS comply with security guidelines established by the United States government and the American College of Radiology.

Freedom from dependence on "hard copy" films. Only one health care provider can have access to your filmed examination images at any given time. You may be asked to repeatedly find, pick up, and deliver films to various doctors participating in your care. With full implementation of PACS, all these aggravating problems are eliminated.

Expect to hear more about PACS. At Albany Advanced Imaging, we are glad that our leadership in medical information management brings a big benefit to you and your doctor.