Image communications. What is needed and why.

Better communications are essential in the new medical environment. Methods to make more efficient the throughput in an existing department, foster confidence of patients, and improve the communications and efficiency of referring physicians are needed. The most difficult and thus the driving component of the new communications environment is image transmission. Concepts of picture archiving and communications systems, or PACS, arising from digital technology make possible unique and ubiquitous solutions to image communications. Better quality control and improved interpretation throughout the system, including the offices of referring physicians, will be possible. Radiologists are in a position to mold this new medical industry.