Booking Imaging Appointments (PACS)

Article author
Tamsin Watson
  • Updated

What is the context?


When booking an imaging appointment, it’s essential to ensure that all required PACS services are applied correctly, especially when dealing with multipart services. These services are slightly different from standard ones, and understanding the steps involved ensures a smooth booking process for both the user and the radiographer.

What is the purpose of the article?


This article explains how to book an imaging appointment when using multipart PACS services, including the steps to apply and manage these services correctly. It also covers the actions required if there’s a mismatch between the services selected and the multipart service requirements.

 

1. Booking a Standard Imaging Appointment

Booking an imaging appointment is much the same as booking any other appointment type, however, the application of services may vary slightly.

2. Applying Multipart Services

Multipart services, such as those used for complex imaging needs, require a slightly different approach. For example, in the ‘Creating Multipart PACS Services’ tutorial, we demonstrated a ‘Two Part Scan’ service. To use this type of service, you must select the multipart service and then choose the individual parts that need to be scanned.

For instance:

  • Select the ‘Two Part Scan’ multipart service:
  • Choose the parts to be scanned, such as Lumbar Spine and Thoracic Spine.

3. Checking for Service Mismatches

If the number of PACS services selected does not match the number required by the multipart service, a warning message will appear when the patient arrives for their appointment. This warning ensures that all necessary services are accounted for before proceeding.

For example:

If the multipart service requires two parts (like Lumbar Spine and Thoracic Spine) but only one part is selected, the warning will notify the user of this discrepancy.4. Resolving Service Mismatches

To address any service mismatches:

  1. Navigate to the ‘Change Services’ section.
  2. Add or remove services as required to ensure that the correct number of PACS services are applied.
  3. Verify that the services align with the multipart PACS service specifications.

5. Patient Arrival and Radiographer Notification

Once the patient has arrived, and the services are correctly applied, the system will alert the Radiographer. This alert will confirm that the patient is waiting and provide specific details about the required services, ensuring that the imaging process can proceed smoothly and efficiently.

Review date


This article was last updated on 29th January 2025.