Method and system for associating exposed radiographic films with proper patient information

This invention relates generally to the field of medical imaging, and more particularly to a method and system for associating exposed radiographic films with proper patient information. A method and system is described which facilitates the proper association of radiographic film with a patient information. The invention maintains information for each patient to be examined in the current day and generates a unique identifying ID code for each patient to be examined. Before examining a patient, the current patient's unique identifier is imaged on an unexposed radiographic film. After the patient is examined and the film is exposed, the film is developed and digitized. Patient information is retrieved and associated with the digitized medical images by analyzing the digital image data in order to determine the patient's unique identifier. In this manner, the invention ensures the proper association of patient information with exposed radiographic film. Once properly associated, the digital image data and the patient information can be communicated to a Picture Archiving and Communication System. The present invention also allows for interfacing with a hospital's Radiology Information System, thus eliminating the need for manual entry of patient information.