The digital readiness of imaging facilities in Saskatchewan.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the digital readiness of Saskatchewan's imaging facilities.


METHODS
A questionnaire was mailed to all 173 imaging facilities in Saskatchewan, ranging from small private clinics to tertiary care hospitals. The 129 responses were received, tabulated and summarized.


RESULTS
Of the 129 facilities that responded, only 2 had picture archiving and communication systems (PACS). Both were private, urban imaging facilities. Six facilities had digital radiology information systems, 12 had digital hospital information systems and 8 had digital patient records. Only 42 sites had Internet access in their facilities.


CONCLUSIONS
Only a small minority of Saskatchewan imaging facilities have any digital capability whatsoever. None are prepared to make the transition to a fully digital environment at this time. The infrastructure required to send or receive high-quality digital images among imaging facilities in Saskatchewan does not exist. A strategy to address the implementation of digital imaging and PACS should be developed at a provincial level.
Burbridge
Brent
B
Department of Medical Imaging, Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon, Sask. burbridb@duke.usask.ca
Bell
Cliff
C
D003936:Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted; D003952:Diagnostic Imaging; D006268:Health Facilities; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D011873:Radiology Information Systems; D012525:Saskatchewan; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires