ระบบ PACS

Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) Picture Archiving and Communication System or PACS, is the preferred medical imaging system at Vibhavadi Hospital, Radiology Department. Since January of 2006, PACS was the main system used at the hospital instead of the traditional film imaging. Medical images can be sent through the network and stored digitally in the system as the universal DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) format, therefore it is both convenient and efficient for technicians and patients alike. Comparison between conventional film system and PACS Conventional film system require radiographers to perform an x-ray, develop the film, prepare a film envelop, and then send it to the radiologist to interpret results. After that, the film will be stored in the film storage room, only retrieved when physicians require it; in which they must borrow the film from the storage room to look at in the ward or the OPD. All these processes require staff and may take up time to locate and store the films, unfortunately, films can also be dislocated which can complicate the process. Since Vibhavadi Hospital switched to PACS, the process of medical imaging has become highly efficient. After radiographers perform an x-ray with an imaging plate, it can be converted by a computed radiography into a digital format, which can then besent through the PACS server. Once in the server, radiologists and physicians can bring up the image anytime without hassle.

Benefits of using PACS

       1. Benefits to the medical processes

              - Time efficient for all processes including: diagnosis, waiting for the results, no film development necessary, and does not require film to be located in the storage room.

             - Faster diagnosis and medical treatment received.

             - Medical history can be retrieved anytime, especially to aid with the diagnosis and progression of the medical condition, allowing for the appropriate treatment plans to be put in place.

             - Lower radiation exposure to both patients and radiographers in case x-ray images need to be retaken, due to technical errors.

           2. Resource efficiency and environmental friendly

             - Decrease the amount of x-ray waste, all images from the procedure are digital and can be adjusted for brightness and contrast.

            - Prevent films from being misplaced.

            - Environmental friendly; no more chemical x-ray waste.

            - No film storage needed.

            - Digital images will not deteriorate like   the conventional film method.