Picture archiving and communication system (PACS) networking: three implementation strategies.

This paper outlines the diverse Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) networking implementation strategies at the University of California at Los Angeles, the University of Florida, and the University of Kansas. At the University of California at Los Angeles, a very high-speed network has been integrated into a hierarchical networking strategy, resulting in an entirely customized network for the local transmission of images. The University of Florida has chosen to implement networks for local transmission of images using commercially available equipment. The University of Kansas, specializing in teleradiology applications, uses commercial telecommunication circuits to implement long distance referral services to small hospitals.