Three methods of implementing a picture archiving and communication system.

A picture archiving and communication system (PACS) is a system integration of many components, including radiologic image acquisition devices, computers, communication networks, image display workstations, and data base management systems. The author describes three general approaches to implementing a PACS. In the first approach, the department or institution acts as a systems integrator, designing and implementing the PACS. In the second approach, the PACS is planned on the basis of the department's operations and environment and then a manufacturer is contracted to design and build the system. The third approach is to purchase a turnkey system, with some modifications provided by the manufacturer for a specific clinical application. The author provides examples of each approach in the clinical environment and presents the disadvantages and advantages of each.