The digital readiness of imaging facilities in Saskatchewan.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the digital readiness of Saskatchewan's imaging facilities. METHODS: A questionnaire was mailed to all 173 imaging facilities in Saskatchewan, ranging from small private clinics to tertiary care hospitals. The 129 responses were received, tabulated and summarized. RESULTS: Of the 129 facilities that responded, only 2 had picture archiving and communication systems (PACS). Both were private, urban imaging facilities. Six facilities had digital radiology information systems, 12 had digital hospital information systems and 8 had digital patient records. Only 42 sites had Internet access in their facilities. CONCLUSION: Only a small minority of Saskatchewan imaging facilities have any digital capability whatsoever. None are prepared to make the transition to a fully digital environment at this time. The infrastructure required to send or receive high-quality digital images among imaging facilities in Saskatchewan does not exist. A strategy to address the implementation of digital imaging and PACS should be developed at a provincial level.