Seven HMC hospitals implement world-class imaging technology

Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has implemented a multi-site Radiology Information Systems (RIS) and Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS) from GE Healthcare across its seven hospitals. The project, which was implemented in record time, enables clinicians to move from using traditional X-ray film to accessing their patients’ image records on their screens at the touch of a button. The new system will facilitate improved diagnosis and patient care capabilities.

The RIS/PACS solution provides an integrated view of the patient‘s imaging records. Advanced image processing tools allow doctors and other health professionals to access and compare images in order to decide on the best treatments for their patients. Providing access to images at the desktop for referring physicians as soon as the patient’s examination has been completed, significantly enhances patient management, allows more timely diagnosis and clinical management to be initiated, and reduces the need to wait for or locate x-ray film bags.  

Dr. Ahmed J Omar, Acting Chairman of Radiology at HMC, said the new system will facilitate improved diagnosis and patient care capabilities. “Imaging is becoming increasingly integral to preventive and treatment management practices. The system allows for easy access of comprehensive diagnostic information by physicians and other care providers, which enables faster patient management decision making. We placed great emphasis on not only implementing the technology but ensuring relevant training for all clinicians.”

The project was managed by HMC’s Radiology and Health Information Systems departments, who received technical and project management assistance from Malomatia.

Mr. Abdullah Al Emadi, Executive Director of Health Information System (HIS) at HMC said: “Key members from the Clinicians Group, Radiology and Health Information Systems departments worked closely together to ensure the successful completion of this very large and complex project. I am delighted that we were able to roll this system out throughout seven hospitals in less than a year and a half – this is a record achievement in the global healthcare sector and reflects the achievement of a key milestone in HMC’s strategic IT plan.”

The new fully web based system enables images such as x-rays and scans to be stored electronically and viewed on any PC across HMC, irrespective of where the image has been captured, creating a near filmless process tailored for healthcare environments. The first of its kind in Qatar, this technology combines flexibility and interoperability between different imaging devices and a stable infrastructure that will help maximize efficiency and improve the quality of patient services within HMC.