A Review of Core Concepts of Imaging Informatics

There are myriad systems and standards used in imaging informatics. Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) is the standard for displaying, transferring, and storing medical images. Health Level Seven International (HL7) develops and maintains standards for exchanging, integrating, and sharing medical data. Picture archiving and communication system (PACS) serves as the health provider’s primary tool for viewing and interpreting medical images. Medical imaging depends on the interoperability of several of these systems. From entering the order into the electronic medical record (EMR), several systems receive and share medical data, including the radiology information system (RIS) and hospital information system (HIS). After acquiring an image, transformations may be performed to better focus on a specific area. The workflow from entering the order to receiving the report depends on many systems. Having disaster recovery and business continuity procedures is important should any issues arise. This article intends to review these essential concepts of imaging informatics.