Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) is a standard for storing and transmitting medical images. DICOM files can be exchanged between two devices, such as a scanner and a printer, or between a server and a client computer, enabling the images to be viewed on any device that is DICOM-compliant.

Dicom is the standard for medical image communication and involves sending images to a PACS (picture archival and communication system) where they can be viewed by authorized clinicians. CIS (Clinical Information System) is a type of software that helps manage patient data, including images, within a hospital or clinic. 

Clinical Information Systems (CIS) are computer systems that capture, store, and process patient medical data and information for use in healthcare delivery. CIS typically contains a patient’s medical history, lab results, X-rays, and other images. CIS systems are used by physicians and other clinicians to make decisions about patient care.

CIS systems typically include features such as electronic medical records, scheduling, and billing. While Dicom is the standard for image communication, CIS systems are becoming increasingly popular as a way to manage all aspects of patient care. 

 Read Also: How does DICOM work and How is DICOM Beneficial for the Healthcare

Difference Between Dicom & CIS

The key difference between DICOM and CIS is that DICOM is a standard for storing and transmitting medical images while CIS is a computer system that captures, stores, and processes patient medical data and information.

Other differences between these two types of systems are:

• Dicom is primarily focused on images, while CIS systems include a variety of features for managing patient data.

• Dicom images are typically stored in a PACS, while CIS systems may include their own database or interface with a PACS.

• CIS systems may offer additional features such as electronic medical records, scheduling, and billing.

When choosing a system for your hospital or clinic, it is important to consider the needs of your organization. If you need a comprehensive system for managing patient data, a CIS may be the best option. If you are primarily interested in storing and sharing images, a Dicom system may be the better choice.

What is PACS & RIS | DIfference Between PACS & RIS

There are two main types of medical imaging informatics systems:

• PACS 
• RIS

Both PACS and RIS are used to store, manage, and distribute medical images.PACS (picture archiving and communication system) is a computerized system used to store, retrieve, and distribute medical images, such as X-rays. PACS is used by hospitals, clinics, and radiology centers.

What is RIS?

RIS (radiology information system) is a computerized system used to store, manage, and distribute information related to radiological examinations. RIS is used by radiologists and other medical professionals.

RIS systems are typically composed of four main components: a patient database, an order entry system, a scheduling system, and a report generation system. The patient database stores information about the patients. The order entry system is used to enter information about the radiological examinations. The scheduling system is used to schedule the radiological examinations. The report generation system is used to generate reports about the radiological examinations.

What is PACS?

PACS provides storage, retrieval, and distribution of images while RIS stores manage, and distributes information related to radiological examinations. PACS is used mainly by hospitals, clinics, and radiology centers while RIS is used by radiologists and other medical professionals.

PACS systems are typically composed of three main components: a database, a workstation, and a network. The database stores the images. The workstation is used by radiologists and other medical professionals to view and manipulate images. The network is used to transmit the images from the database to the workstation.

Key Differences Between PACS & RIS

The main difference between PACS and RIS is that PACS is used to store, retrieve, and distribute medical images while RIS is used to store, manage, and distribute information related to radiological examinations. PACS systems are typically more expensive than RIS systems. PACS systems require more storage than RIS systems. PACS systems are typically used by larger organizations than RIS systems. RIS systems can be integrated with PACS systems. 

When RIS and PACS are integrated, the two systems share a common database. This integration allows for better management of medical images and information.

Need DICOM, PACS, RIS & CIS related IT Solutions?

QSS Technosoft Inc is a leading provider of pacs medical imaging software informatics systems. We offer a wide range of PACS and RIS solutions. Our PACS and RIS solutions are designed to meet the needs of hospitals, clinics, and radiology centers. We offer a variety of features and options that can be customized to meet your specific needs. 

We are proud to mention that our work has been recognized by leading B2B reviews and research platforms like GoodFirms, Clutch, MirrorView, and many more.

Contact us today to learn more about what we offer in DICOM, CIS, PACS, and RIS IT solutions.