The use of digital images will facilitate the electronic transfer of image information between healthcare providers, thus providing more appropriate care. With the use of technology, the digital capture of X-Ray and other diagnostic images will:

• reduce the time delays in the current reading and reporting of images
  
• reduce the number of lost films and the consequent need for repeat X-Rays
  
• enable simultaneous review of images
  
• ensure more appropriate referrals to specialist hospitals
  
• enable remote reading of images

Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) are a mature technology which allow the electronic capture, storage and retrieval of digital images. The images are viewed on high resolution work stations for diagnostic purposes, but can then be reviewed on any PC within the Trust by clinicians in other specialties and on wards - to provide a complete picture of the treatment to date and inform appropriate care. Equally, the digital nature of these images allows them to be transferred rapidly between healthcare organisations. If a specialist opinion is required urgently, the images can be transmitted to the specialist clinician, for an opinion, rather than having to transfer the patient, which can often lead to inappropriate referrals. Equally it will help to ensure that specialist and generalist skills are used more appropriately.

Digital images will also provide a key component of the Electronic Health Record - giving a more complete picture of a patient's medical history.