Cost Identification and Benefits of the Picture Archiving and Communication System at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.
Abstract
A proposed plan for complete implementation of the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) at Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC) was assessed by cost identification and provider satisfaction. The annual oprating cost for year 1 amounts to $2,485,924.80 and ranges from $2,774,724.80 to $1,812,861.80 for years 2 throught 8. In contrast, the annual cost of film-based radiology is $913,665.97. Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that the most significant factors associated with overall satisfaction are (1) "user friendliness," (2) the effect on efficiency of clinical practice, (3) reliability, and (4) confidence in diagnosis using the PACS, which resulted in a shared variance of .55? with F (4,114) =35.847, p <.0001. Recommendations are presented for expansion of the PACS at WRAMC. The PACS offers distinct advantages when compared to conventional film-based radiology. However, hardware, software, information system, and maintenance costs of the PACS are high. Clinicians and hospital administrators must determine if PACS is the best method, consistent with their budget, to solve problems with storage and distribution of medical image information.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 17, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA371995
Entities
People
- Hunter R. Clouse
Organizations
- Walter Reed Army Medical Center