Hawke’s Bay DHB was using standard X-ray film to take images of patients. In order to better manage radiology information and images, Hawke’s Bay DHB identified the need for a secure information management solution that would improve the efficiency and allow collaboration between healthcare providers.
After evaluating several solutions the decision was made in June 2004 to implement a new generation Radiology Information System (RIS), Picture Archiving Communications System (PACS) with accompanying Voice Recognition (VR) technology.
Working with Gen-i, along with GE Healthcare, a Radiology Information System (RIS) and Picture Archiving Communications System (PACS) was developed and delivered to the DHB using Gen-i's Applications Service Provider (ASP) model, which provides the same functionality as an on-site installation.
The new system allows radiologists and clinicians to instantly retrieve and simultaneously view patient digital images and radiology information faster and more effectively, making X-ray film truly a thing of the past.
For radiologists and clinicians using the ASP service, the functionality and access to images is exactly as if they had the computer facility in their own hospital. They are able to get quicker, more reliable access to radiological images and reports, and therefore provide timely diagnosis and treatment. This in turn means that the Radiology Department is better placed to respond to increases in demand and anticipated throughput.
Another advantage is that there is no need for major capital investment as the usage is on a “fee for service” basis, which covers the annual operational cost and comprises of hardware, software, hosting services, support and maintenance, upgrades, telecommunications and capacity planning. As a result, the hosted infrastructure is saving Hawke’s Bay DHB a substantial amount of public money.
In addition the Hawke’s Bay DHB no longer has to buy, process and store expensive X-ray films, so this funding can now be reinvested into other areas of patient care.