Adopting Electronic Patient Records Makes it Quicker, Easier to Connect Specialists and Physicians to Critical Diagnostic Information
Frankfort, KY (February 20, 2008) – Frankfort Regional Medical Center, which offers the communities of Central Kentucky the latest in healthcare technology, has now gone digital with its new, state-of-the-art patient record system that digitally acquires, stores and retrieves diagnostic images – generally known as the Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS). This innovative digital PACS system, called Centricity–, was acquired recently from GE Healthcare.
"Our new PACS system brings Frankfort Regional Medical Center another giant step forward into the digital age of healthcare," says Chip Peal, CEO. "The computerization of patient records mirrors the way medical image technology is going, helping us stay at the cutting edge of patient care and making it easier than ever to connect specialists and physicians to the critical diagnostic information they need."
This advanced digital technology replaces film and creates images, such as those generated from x-rays, CT scanners, ultrasound, nuclear medicine equipment or MRI exams, directly on electronic plates. Image files are then stored on magnetic discs and can be retrieved on command and viewed digitally, helping physicians make decisions and begin patient treatment much more quickly. In addition to decreased waiting time for patients, the new technology includes electronic tools that assist in detailed analysis.
"The ability to view diagnostic images quickly on our computer network brings critical information right to the physicians at the point where they are making decisions and administering care," says John Howard, M.D., diagnostic radiologist. "Now, there's no more chase for films or records – the CT or MR image needed is just a click away, helping us to provide better care for our patients."