Abstract

MOODLEY, Indres  and  MOODLEY, Sivani. A comparative cost analysis of picture archiving and communications systems (PACS) versus conventional radiology in the private sector. S. Afr. J. radiol. (Online) [online]. 2015, vol.19, n.1, pp.1-7. ISSN 2078-6778.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajr.v19i1.634.

BACKGROUND: Radiology is rapidly advancing, with a global transition to digital imaging technology to improve productivity and enhance communication. The major challenge confronting radiology practices is to demonstrate cost savings and productivity gains when a picture archiving and communication system (PACS) is established AIM: To undertake an incremental cost analysis of PACS compared with conventional radiology to determine productivity gains, if any, at two private hospitals in Durban METHOD: An incremental cost analysis for chest radiographs,, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging brain scans with and without contrast were performed. The overall incremental cost for PACS in comparison with a conventional radiology site was determined. The net present value was also determined to evaluate the capital budgeting requirements for both systems RESULTS: The incremental cost of both capital and the radiology information system for installing PACS shows an expected increase. The incremental PACS image cost shows a reduction CONCLUSION: The study provides a benchmark for the cost incurred when implementing PACS. It also provides a decision framework for radiology departments that plan to introduce PACS and helps to determine the feasibility of its introduction

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