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The Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) Standard specifies a non-proprietary data interchange protocol, digital image format, and file structure for biomedical images and image-related information. The fundamental concepts of the DICOM message protocol, services, and information objects are reviewed as background for a detailed discussion of the functionality of DICOM; the innovations and limitations of the Standard; and the impact of various DICOM features on information system users [...]

The eighth annual workshop of the IAIMS Consortium was devoted to exploring how information technology might provide the tools to allow health care practices to compete in the new health care environment while maintaining independence. The options that were discussed included: optimizing care of the patient in the local setting; reducing practice overhead by improving efficiency and effectiveness; and finding innovative strategies for providing health care and new products.

In general, there is agreement that robust integrated information systems are the foundation for building successful regional health care delivery systems. Integrated Advanced Information Management System (IAIMS) institutions that, over the years, have developed strategies for creating cohesive institutional information systems and services are finding that IAIMS strategies work well in the even more complex regional environment. The key elements of IAIMS planning are described and lessons learned are discussed [...]

An information system architecture defines the components of a system and the interfaces among the components. A good architecture is essential for creating an Integrated Advanced Information Management System (IAIMS) that works as an integrated whole yet is flexible enough to accommodate many users and roles, multiple applications, changing vendors, evolving user needs, and advancing technology. Modularity and layering promote flexibility by reducing the complexity of a system and by [...]

The plans for Resource Coordination for Surgical Services system (RCSS) incorporate a distributed objectbase with a coordinating server. User-centered information screens are customized for each geographic location in surgical services. User interfaces are designed to mimic paper lists and worksheets used by health care providers. Patient-specific and site-specific data will be entered and maintained by providers at each geographic location, but also rebroadcast and displayed for all providers. Although RCSS [...]

To identify the organizational factors which influence the diffusion of end user online literature searching, the computer-based patient record, and electronic mail systems in academic health sciences centers in the United States.

To assess the practicality of an automated computer interview as a method to assess preferences for use in decision making. To assess preferences for outcomes of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and its treatment.

Telemedicine is being used by physicians at the member hospitals of the Jefferson Cancer Network (JCN) for consultations regarding the diagnosis and management of cancer patients. The technology employed for this telemedicine system was chosen to meet three related specifications: low capital and operating cost, internal maintainability by community hospital data processing staffs, and compatibility with the existing technologic infrastructure. The solution selected is the ubiquitous desktop personal computer and [...]