Multimedia communications in medical imaging

Changes in imaging technology and applications make it possible to obtain more information about patients. Information management systems, however, lag behind those achievements. The need to access and disseminate the growing volumes of patient-based information is acute. Direct effects in improving patient care, cost efficiencies in delivery, and decision making and improved communications can be gained by providing seamless views of integrated data. A prototype multimedia application that addresses work flow, human interface, and information integration and technologies is being developed. The article describes the history, need, and technical considerations involved in that development effort.< >