Planning for a multi-imaging center picture archiving and communications system

There are fundamental differences in planning and configuring a picture arc hiving and communications system (PACS) for a multisite imaging practice as compared to a hospital-based radiology department. In the for-profit, mult i-imaging center environment, return on investment is more critical and the distributed nature of radiology operations presents complex communications , infrastructure, archiving, workflow, and distribution requirements. This article discusses desired outcomes for a multi-imaging center PACS and the planning, functional, technical, and support requirements necessary to achi eve those outcomes. Copyright (C) 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company.