Implementing a Java-based image and report distribution system in a non-picture archiving and communication system environment.

The benefits and pitfalls of implementing a Java-based system to distribute results and images to referring physicians are addressed. The basic requirements for and barriers to implementing this system in a non-picture archiving and communication system (PACS) environment will also be discussed. The majority of radiology information systems (RIS) and hospital information systems (HIS) currently only distribute the text data for radiology examinations. This is generally adequate for low-acuity exams in a relatively healthy patient; however, many clinicians prefer to review images so they can correlate the reported findings with the image data, as well as review the exam themselves. A web-based solution eliminates the need for specialized review software and/or hardware at each review site. In addition, there is no need for support personnel to travel to each site to set up and upgrade software.