Assessment of PACS (Picture Archiving Communication Systems): An Impact Analysis

In order to make rational decisions for further PACS-implementations in Viennese community hospitals a (neutral) assessment of the SMZO**-project was launched by the Viennese community hospital financing body. The aim of the technology assessment was to gather the experiences of the day-to-day practice, organizational aspects and hindrances to develop the full potential of the PACS installation. The study analyses the conditions for employment of digital radiology, gathers the experiences of national and international projects and presents a view on critical points, from which action options for further implementations can be derived. In the center of interest stood work organisation, handling and user attitudes, perceptions of radiologists and clinicians, realism of expectations regarding economic efficiency, technical aspects, influence on quality of medical care as well as tele-radiological aspects.