Role of PACS Vendors in Radiology

A significant portion in the field of radiology is using the highest quality and most reliable imaging technology. Radiologists are doctors who have received additional training in the interpretation of medical images and the performance of imaging procedures. Radiologists are most commonly associated with x rays and x ray accessories, but now perform fluoroscopy, computed tomography, mammography, ultrasound, nuclear medicine and magnetic resonance imaging as well. To assist in image storage and distribution, radiologists use picture archiving and communication systems (PACS). PACS computers are a medical technology that provides economical storage and easy access to images from multiple source machine types.

Pacs monitors are a necessity in the radiology field. A PACS monitor can handle images from various medical imaging instruments, including ultrasound, magnetic resonance, positron emission tomography, endoscopy, mammograms, ophthalmology, etc. etc. Being such a need in this medical field, there are a wide variety of PACS vendors willing to provide these PACS workstations to hospitals and clinics. What causes such an array of Pacs system vendors to exist is because the technology itself is a mix of medical technology, IT, and computer software. Some PACS vendors will specialize in the medical portion of the equipment, while other PACS vendors are IT based. Still other PACS vendors are independent computer software developers.

Different PACS vendors may focus on different aspects of the system. Some companies focus on training the use of PACS. Other PACS vendors sell machines that may be centralized in one area of radiology, say dental imaging or ultrasound. If an interested buyer is a specialty clinic, they may not have use for an all encompassing machine, rather preferring a less powerful but centralized and less expensive machine. Cost should never be the deciding factor when selecting from PACS vendors however, as what is most necessary in the healthcare environment and what works best for doctors, nurses, technicians and other professionals is of utmost importance. A PACS system is a vital part of any radiology clinic and proper usage and functionality could make the difference in a patients life. It is the duty of PACS vendors to provide that quality and professionalism to the field.