Fletcher Allen is Vermont's university medical center. Located in Burlington, Vermont, Fletcher Allen is a 500-bed tertiary care center and teaching hospital in alliance with the University of Vermont.
ePACS
The Enterprise-wide Picture Archiving and Communication System (ePACS) is an information system that electronically stores, retrieves, transports, displays, prints, and manages digital images.
ePACS Benefits:
- Improved access to diagnostic-quality images
- Improved capability to read multi-slice CT and MRI images
- Simultaneous access to images by multiple providers in different locations
- Elimination of repeat studies necessitated by unavailability of images
- Enhanced ability to compare cases
- Ability to read from remote locations
- Virtually eliminates dependence on film management
ePACS Overview Presentation
ePACS High-Level Timeline
Accessing Images
Advanced radiology imaging technologies such as multi-slice CT and MRI are now read most effectively through the use of digital imaging. Thus the industry is quickly moving towards a filmless environment for image viewing and interpretation. To stay abreast of this new technology and to improve patient care services, Fletcher Allen has implemented an enterprise-wide Picture Archiving and Communication System (ePACS) for radiology imaging services. As a result, Fletcher Allen offers images on CDs as well as via the internet.
Accessing Images Outside of Fletcher Allen
Images Available on CDs
Beginning in early April 2006, the Radiology Department will begin providing images on CDs in place of film. Images on the CD are viewable with an easy to use software package that is included on the CD and will automatically start when the CD is inserted into a PC. For situations where CDs cannot be used, films are still available for the short term. If historic comparison images are not available in a digital format, the Radiology Department will still provide films.
Images Available Online via the Internet
Fletcher Allen is currently offering online access to practices that have historically required the greatest degree of radiology service to care for their patients. Fletcher Allen will expand the online offering to more providers.
Computer Hardware Requirements for Viewing Digital Images
Accessing Images from within Fletcher Allen
Locations of new image viewing workstations at Fletcher Allen