June, 2002

Harnessing Internet Technology To Improve Radiology Services

Kodak DirectView Web Distribution System enables hospitals to significantly extend the reach of PACS by rapidly distributing diagnostic reports and referral images over the Web. The system is cost-effective as it uses established Web technologies and can help improve radiology services and patient care by delivering reports and images more quickly and more efficiently. High quality electronically distributed images provide excellent reference for reports helping to communicate the exact nature of findings or assist in clarifying telephone conversations.

Hospitals installing the Kodak DirectView Web Distribution System can rely on a range of Kodak support initiatives including, computer-based training, technical support, consulting services, warranties and service options.

The Kodak DirectView Web Server
Diagnostic reports are distributed from the HIS/RIS via a broker. Images are captured from most DICOM sources regardless of manufacturer, and managed on the image server with routing capability. The server also links to qualified e-mail systems and distributes reports directly to the clinician, with links to images on the server.

Distribution performance and image storage capacity can be increased with selectable JPEG image compression, to limits set by the hospital. A configurable banner can be used to add hospital identity to the browser, add links to a hospital's home page or to other Web applications, customise the opening screen, and provide hospital news and information. An easy-to-see interface allows convenient and easy server administration.

Referring physicians can view referral-quality medical images and reports, via the Web, with a standard PC using standard browser technology so there is no need for costly viewing stations.

Kodak Web Viewing Software
Two Web viewing software packages are available - Standard and Enhanced - for quality images provided by Kodak digital processing and full 12-bit resolution. The software is compatible with a variety of PCs and operating systems that support the Netscape Communicator (4.6 or higher) or Microsoft Internet Explorer (5.01 SP1 or higher).

Users can set preferences for image quality and select default image presentation formats by modality type. There is also the ability to print images and reports using desktop standard printers.

Kodak and DirectView are trade marks
Editor's note: For additional information about Kodak, visit http://www.kodak.co.uk/go/health

For further information, please contact:
Giulia Coope
Health Imaging
01442 844648 (Tel)
01442 844842 (Fax)