How to Implement PACS?
There are basically three PACS implementation methods according to Cloud 9 PACS. Details of these are given below.
- System Integration
- Requirement Specification and Contracting
- Turnkey
1. System Integration
In the first method, radiology department assembles the team with know-how to PACS. They are the system integrator and select PACS components from different manufacturers, write coding for PACS software and integrate the hardware with software.
2. Requirement Specification and Contracting
In this method according to Cloud 9 PACS, a team comprising outsiders as well as insiders is assigned to write specifications for the PACS system according to the hospital requirements. The team assigns the task to a manufacturer who prepares the components needed.
3. Turnkey
In the third and last method, a manufacturer develops the whole PACS system and installs it in a hospital. The manufacturers allow the hospitals to customize the system according to their needs but they don’t get input from the experts.
Keys to Successful PACS Implementation
Following are the best steps and tips for successful PACS implementation.
1. Benefits Realization
For implementation of the PACS system, hospitals need to understand and realize the benefits of the system. Without this realization, they may not be really ready and in a position to successfully implement and integrate the system.
2. Develop Communication Strategies
When the decisions are made about adoption, they should start communication. The communication strategy will help to manage the expectations, coordinate with the doctors, physicians and other staff in the hospital. Input of outside experts will also be taken in this regard.
3. Set Up Roles and Responsibilities
Whatever the method a hospital chooses for implementation of PACS, roles and responsibilities should be assigned as stressed by Cloud 9 PACS. This will make the work easy and let the teams manage things timely. Everyone will deal with their relevant assigned tasks.
4. Engage the Stakeholders
Stakeholders are the end users of your services. Experts believe engaging the clients and users is an important part of PACS implementation process. The internal staff should also be taken into confidence and they should be guided about the key areas that will face transition.
5. Work with the Physicians
Sometimes input of the doctors and physicians can help to a great extent. If you have any staff member who already worked on such a system, he or she should be made a part of the process. They can provide ample guidance and suggest means and measures to deal with the obstacles.
6. IT Infrastructure and Environment
For PACS, infrastructure is also needed. This is true for the local PACS systems. If you are using cloud services, you will not have to worry about the infrastructure as the vendors will manage this.
7. Training and Education
When the system is being implemented, training of the staff should start. They should be provided complete help in order to let them understand the system and how things work with PACS.
8. Plan for Downtimes and Service Delay
Downtime is an issue you should be ready for when you implement cloud based PACS system. You should have a plan and proposals to deal with the service delay and how it will be resolved immediately.
