1. Pre-acquisition > 2. Acquisition > 3. Reporting > 4. Results distribution
In an emergency case, the results distribution phase occurs almost simultaneously with the interpretation of the image. The results can also be distributed in the regular manner to the family physician.
10. Emergency room physician receives the report and images
The emergency room, or referring, physician receives the report and images. Often, the radiologist gives the report to the ER physician verbally. The ER physician can also view the images at the same time as the radiologist using a workstation in the emergency room. Why? Once images are in the PACS, they are available immediately to anyone in the hospital with access to a display station. The ER physician can then act on the diagnosis much more quickly.
11. Family physician follows up
The Radiology Department sends the family physician a paper report to read. Or the family physician views the report and images over the Internet using a web browser. Then the patient goes to his family physician for a follow-up appointment. This follow-up may occur in the hospital or in the doctor's office, depending on the injury.
1. Pre-acquisition > 2. Acquisition > 3. Reporting > 4. Results distribution