Digital imaging allows:

• faster delivery of medical images, which can lead to speedier availability of results
• no lost or misplaced images
• the ability to report whenever you have free time. Even if it’s only 15 minutes, PACS will allow you to pull up the image on screen instantly
• reliable quality of images. Unlike film, there will never be any black spots on images due to bad light
• flexible viewing with the ability to manipulate images on screen which allows for better analysis
• instant access to historic images and patient records, which enables the comparison of patient images (old and new) and thus the measuring of the effectiveness of their treatment or the development of their condition
• better collaboration, as PACS can be viewed from multiple terminals and locations by a range of clinicians at the same time, enabling more discussion and collaborative working to the benefit of the patient
• a more efficient radiology department. The combination of PACS, along with voice recognition means that diagnoses can be made and authorised straight away
• improved learning and training opportunities, both for trainee radiologists as they develop their skills and for existing radiologists as there is more opportunity to collaborate with colleagues and share learnings and experience