Picture Archiving and Communication Systems: A Systematic Review of PublishedStudies of Diagnostic Accuracy, Radiology Work Processes, Outcomes of Care, and Cost. Technology Assessment Program. Report No. 5

摘要

Historically, Veterans Administration (VA) has played a major role in thedissemination of information technology into medicine as part of its coordinated efforts to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its health care delivery system. To support these efforts, the Office of Research and Development of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) requested that the Management Decision and Research Center (MDRC) define significant issues and frame potential future research questions related to the use of picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) in clinical settings. This document will also clarify for VA decision makers what is known, and not known, about the impact of PACS when used in a clinical setting. The MDRC performed a systematic review of the published evidence about the clinical performance and economics of PACS. A systematic review uses a rigorous scientific approach to limit bias, and provides evidence-based conclusions. This review complements the technical research and development efforts already underway within VA.