Famed Hammersmith Hospital in London, one of the first healthcare facilities in the world to embrace PACS, claims to be one of the world's first "virtual" hospitals.The reengineering or streamlining of all workflow areas throughout the enterprise is
Famed Hammersmith Hospital in London, one of the first healthcare facilities in the world to embrace PACS, claims to be one of the world's first "virtual" hospitals.
The reengineering or streamlining of all workflow areas throughout the enterprise is complete, all computerized systems have been integrated, and a paperless as well as filmless environment has been achieved, according to Dr. Nicola H. Strickland, a consultant radiologist and senior lecturer in Hammersmith's department of imaging.
All that, plus the introduction of Web browser technology and the integration of teleradiology, makes Hammersmith a "virtual" hospital, she said.
The workflow reengineering was enabled by PACS, Strickland said. Though proven as a clinical tool, most PACS must still justify themselves financially by providing added value to the enterprise. Workflow reengineering is one such added value. Certain specialized software packages, such as remote teleconferencing and exploitation of Web browser technology, are integral to the virtual hospital.
"These have important financial benefits, since they support academic activities such as publishing and teaching, as well as clinical purposes," she said.
Four new DICOM concepts helped facilitate Hammersmith's virtual migration:
"Previously, additional steps had to be included as separate imaging examinations, an inconvenient process for the user," Strickland said.
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