Does DICOM Work? A Quick Overview.

Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) is the global standard for information technology at hospitals throughout the world. Developed in 1993, DICOM assists healthcare providers in producing, displaying, sending, storing, processing, retrieving, printing and querying medical images and other data.

Providers began purchasing equipment and information systems that conform to the DICOM standard soon after DICOM was developed. As the DICOM-enabled systems became commonplace, more healthcare providers were able to share medical imaging and other data more consistently. So, regardless of which vendor you chose, as long as the equipment conformed to the DICOM standard, data could still be shared.

Since its introduction, physicians have enjoyed easier access to images than they experienced prior to DICOM. This means they can make diagnoses faster and provide better treatment to patients. The faster a patient can start treatment, the sooner they’re back on their feet and working toward a healthier disposition. Furthermore, DICOM has helped to lower the cost of care.

As providers work to comply with the Electronic Health Records (EHR) requirements they will have to maintain their DICOM systems as it’s an important part of the patient record. Anyone who has ever gone to the dentist, ophthalmologist, oncologist, radiologist, neurologist or cardiologist has had their records go through a DICOM system. To make sure DICOM continues to be of use to the medical industry, there are 20 working groups looking into the advancements in technology. Up to five times a year, the standard is updated.

DICOM groups frequently work with other groups to ensure that standards are being met. For instance, the joint DICOM/HL7 group has worked on new reference models, approved extensions and developed links of information between the two standards. You will also see DICOM as an integral part of Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise, which is a method of assisting users and vendors who are developing medical imaging and information systems.

There is also a DICOM Standards Committee that is comprised of up to 30 companies, 12 user organizations and eight governmental agencies and trade organizations. The actual standard being used throughout the world is a product of this committee. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association holds the copyright to the Standard, so NEMA handles any day-to-day operations.

Anyone working in radiology services understands the importance of sharing information between providers. To offer patients the best care possible, new technology that conforms to the DICOM standard is essential. One of the newer technological advancements came with Honeycomb, which is a software layer connecting disparate digital silos. With Honeycomb in place, providers can easily share and store data using the cloud. Instead of burning medical images onto CDs, providers only need to jump on the Internet to view images.

OffSite Image Management, Inc., has worked with providers of all sizes to improve the way their medical images are stored and shared. Going with an offsite model, providers are able to save money, have constant access to data and connect with disparate systems, hassle free. For more information about our solutions, contact us today.