PACS technology is continually evolving. It adjusts to changes in standards, advancements in technology, facilities’ requirements, and healthcare regulations. It’s important to stay informed on the changes in healthcare that may impact the development, operation, maintenance, and growth of PACS systems. Here are some recent news articles on PACS systems, imaging, and industry regulations.
Evolution of PACS
The need for picture archiving and communication systems is growing beyond the scope of radiology. Images are being captured in all types of medical fields. These images may not be DICOM compliant, but they still need to be archived, searchable, and retrievable. Read the article >
HIT Standards Committee Meeting
The Health IT Standards Committee met in December to discuss recommendations on standards for image sharing, such as the methods and technical standards used to view images, issues encountered when sharing reports, inclusion of time series data, and the deployment of high level architecture. Read the article >
Increasing Radiology Education and Resources Around the World
During an RSNA 2013 meeting, world radiology leaders discussed the need for support in developing countries in the operation, maintenance, and interpretation of imaging systems. Read the article >
Legislation for Medicare to Use Clinical Guidance Tools for Diagnostic Imaging Tests
The Excellence in Diagnostic Imaging Utilization Act of 2013 was introduced, which would require Medicare to install electronic clinical guidance tools for physicians ordering diagnostic imaging tests such as MRIs and CT Scans. These tools would help reduce unnecessary testing and provide recommendations to physicians. Read the article >
Multimodality Imaging AUC for SIHD
The American College of Cardiology (ACC) released new multimodality imaging appropriate use criteria (AUC) for the detection and assessment of Stable Ischemic Heart Disease (SIHD). This criteria includes updates for radionuclide imaging (RNI), stress echocardiography (echo), calcium scoring, and more. Read the article >
New SMFM Resolution for Obstetric Ultrasound Accreditation
The Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine (SMFM) now recommends that obstetric ultrasound examinations should be done by maternal-fetal medicine subspecialists at appropriately accredited practices. Read the article >
Differences in Accreditation and Certification in Medical Ultrasound
Whereas certification is given to individuals who meet educational and knowledge requirements, accreditation, such as AIUM accreditation, is awarded to facilities that meet specific industry guidelines. Read the article >
Lower Radiation Doses Recommended for CT Scans
New research from a study in China shows that coronary CTA’s can be administered at up to 35% lower radiation exposure and with 27% less iodine through iterative image reconstruction. The study showed no loss in image quality with the reduced radiation. Read the article >
