PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa., October 31, 2005 -- Picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) are extremely versatile data storage and retrieval systems that facilitate the transfer of digital images and patient data throughout a healthcare facility. To better prepare hospitals in selecting the most appropriate PACS, ECRI (www.ecri.org), an independent, nonprofit health services research agency, has published a detailed guidance article in its monthly Health Devices journal. This issue outlines the steps needed to prepare for a PACS purchase, from planning through procurement.

PACS process images from diagnostic imaging modalities and can be linked with radiology information systems and hospital information systems to help improve overall workflow. When it comes to choosing a PACS, it is important to not only choose the best system, but one that suits the facility's needs. ECRI offers in-depth analysis and strategies to help facilities define the scope, analyze workflow requirements, ensure adequate integration, plan for image-storage needs, ensure security, and develop an effective request for proposal. This article follows up three previously published PACS evaluations on brand-name models.

Health Devices is provided to members of ECRI's Health Devices System, Health Devices Gold, and SELECTplus programs. For nearly 35 years, Health Devices has featured comparative, brand-name evaluations of medical devices and systems based on extensive laboratory testing and clinical studies. ECRI's evaluations focus on the safety, performance, efficacy, and human factors design of specific medical devices and technologies. Along with ECRI's test results and ratings, published evaluations include a technology overview, guidance on selecting appropriate devices and using them safely, and discussions of relevant topics, such as cost containment, equipment management, and adherence to standards. Health Devices also features in-depth guidance articles on healthcare technology management topics.
For information on purchasing single or bulk copies of the September 2005 issue of Health Devices, or for more information about membership, contact ECRI by telephone at (610) 825-6000, ext. 5891; by e-mail at communications@ecri.org; by fax at (610) 834-1275; by mail at 5200 Butler Pike, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462-1298, USA; or by visiting www.ecri.org. ECRI's European office can be contacted at info@ecri.org.uk, ECRI's Asia-Pacific office can be contacted at s.e.asia@ecri.org; and ECRI's Middle Eastern office can be contacted at middleeast@ecri.org.

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