Radiology Information System (RIS)
The Radiology Information System (RIS) manages the entire radiology workflow from order entry to report distribution. It integrates with PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) to provide a comprehensive solution for diagnostic imaging departments.
Key Features
Exam Scheduling
- Multi-modality scheduling calendar
- Protocol assignment by exam type
- Patient preparation instructions
- Resource management (rooms, equipment, staff)
DICOM Integration
- Seamless PACS integration
- Image acquisition from modalities
- Prior exam comparison
- Advanced visualization tools
Radiologist Workflow
- Worklist management
- Structured reporting templates
- Voice recognition integration
- Critical findings notification
Results Distribution
- Automated report distribution
- Critical results escalation
- Clinician notification
- Patient portal integration
Imaging Modalities
The RIS supports comprehensive management of all imaging modalities:
X-Ray & Fluoroscopy
- Digital radiography
- Portable imaging
- Procedure tracking
- Contrast management
Computed Tomography (CT)
- Protocol management
- Contrast tracking
- Radiation dose monitoring
- Advanced visualization
Magnetic Resonance (MR)
- Safety screening
- Protocol management
- Sequence optimization
- Advanced post-processing
Ultrasound
- Exam type protocols
- Measurement tools
- Image optimization
- Portable workflow
Nuclear Medicine
- Radiopharmaceutical tracking
- Dose calculation
- Image fusion
- PET/CT coordination
Interventional Radiology
- Procedure scheduling
- Inventory management
- Procedural documentation
- Post-procedure follow-up
Operational Benefits
Workflow Efficiency
- Reduced manual processing
- Streamlined technologist workflow
- Optimized radiologist reading
- Accelerated report turnaround
Quality Improvement
- Standardized protocols
- Reduced radiation exposure
- Consistent reporting
- Peer review integration
Financial Performance
- Improved charge capture
- Resource utilization optimization
- Reduced claim denials
- Enhanced revenue cycle
Implementation Best Practices
- Establish a multidisciplinary implementation team
- Map current workflows before configuring the system
- Develop standardized protocols for each modality
- Create structured reporting templates with radiologist input
- Test PACS integration thoroughly before go-live