How routing rules are applied: Concepts

Two server components affect routing: the Administration Tools and the Network Gateway. The Administration Tools define the routing rules and the Network Gateway uses those rules to send study images to appropriate locations.

Routing of the study can occur at any time, not just when the study enters the system. For example, if the Network Gateway receives an update about the study (such as a change in status) from the Connectivity Manager or if a user wants to retrieve the study from an external PACS, the study may be rerouted to required destinations.

Multiple Network Gateways can be used to manage the routing. Routing is performed by whichever Network Gateway receives the study information from the modality.

Routing is applied to a study in the following way:

1. System routing rules are set up using the Routing Manager (for basic routing by modality) or the Source Manager (for more complex routing).

2. When study images sent from a modality, the Network Gateway queries the Connectivity Manager for the patient ID and accession number, as well as study status.

3. If the study information matches the Connectivity Manager information, the Network Gateway allows the study into the system.

4. The Network Gateway checks the study against the routing rules.

5. If the study information matches any rules, the Network Gateway routes the study to the designated destinations.

6. Based on current system messages (status changes, retrieval, or transmission requests), the Network Gateway checks the routing rules again and routes the studies appropriately.