IMPROVED ACCESS TO DIGITAL IMAGING IN SASKATCHEWAN

A new way to store and transmit digital imaging information is being introduced in Saskatchewan, supporting health care that is better, safer, faster and more secure.

Access to a centralized, complete source of patients' digital images to refer to when making decisions will help authorized Saskatchewan health care professionals offer the highest quality of care to their patients.

Benefits for patients include: improved service in rural areas; decreased waiting times between tests and results; the elimination of X-ray film transportation between locations and enhanced patient safety.

The Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) is a secure computer system designed for the storage, retrieval and display of diagnostic images, such as X-rays, MRI and CT scans in Saskatchewan.

"PACS will become a reality in the Saskatoon Health Region in October 2007," Health Minister Len Taylor said. "Over the next ten months, PACS will become operational in Regina and the six regional hospitals located in Yorkton, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, North Battleford, Lloydminster and Prince Albert. These hospitals, together with private radiology clinics, account for the majority of medical imaging within the province.

"Our goals are ambitious, and the province is right on track. By 2010, we want to reduce dependence on conventional photographic film technology and the storage of it by ninety per cent. Eighty per cent of diagnostic images and reports will be available to authorized caregivers online the same year."

Safeguards are in place to ensure only health professionals involved in patient care access personal health information. Policies, procedures and computer systems are in place to protect information from unauthorized use, error or loss.

While everyone would agree there are many benefits associated with this program, some people may prefer to not share their information. These individuals can request a "masking" option, which will hide their images stored in PACS from view. Individuals who would like to investigate this option should visit Saskatchewan Health's web site or phone Saskatchewan Health's Centralized Privacy Service at 1-800-667-1672.

PACS joins the Pharmaceutical Information Program as one of the first components of a provincial electronic health record.

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For more information, contact:

Joan Petrie
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: jpetrie@health.gov.sk.ca