PACS administrators manage and troubleshoot medical imaging systems, as well as implement storage and updates. The role has evolved to include strategizing, planning, and end-user training. Requirements vary, with some facilities hiring two professionals with complementary skills.
Image Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) administrators work in the field of medical imaging. The duties of a PACS administrator can vary widely depending on the size, scope, and budget of the medical facility. Most of the time, the position requires maintaining, managing, and troubleshooting a PACS system. A PACS administrator also manages and implements the storage of all incoming digital images.
Historically, PACS administrators were primarily technical support people who spent most of their time troubleshooting the system. Over time, the profession has taken on new dimensions, and many PACS administrators are expected to be able to strategize and plan, as well as provide technical assistance. Most positions in the field change dramatically as a medical facility’s needs and resources change.
As medical imaging systems become more complex, many PACS administrators have begun to devote more time to related needs such as end-user training. In the interest of making new systems more accessible to employees, they can also help design programs to improve system design and administration. A PACS administrator can serve as the focal point for the ongoing development and improvement of a system throughout the medical facility. In some cases, the PACS administrator spends so much time on development and design that a PACS coordinator handles the day-to-day maintenance of the system.
A PACS administrator can also manage all updates on a system. This often includes managing vendor relationships related to technology expansion and maintenance. In smaller installations, a vendor may provide a hired PACS administrator for a limited period of time to support the implementation of a new PACS system and train staff in its use. Often, a member of the facility’s staff takes over PACS administration duties from the contractor after the system is implemented and all personnel trained.
Requirements for PACS administrator positions vary widely; therefore, most medical facilities struggle to find a technician who is ideal for the organization’s needs. The profession requires a strong knowledge of radiology and solid IT skills, but the required balance between these areas varies greatly depending on the facility. Some facilities have solved this problem by hiring two professionals with complementary skills to handle PACS administration. In this case, there is usually a lead PACS administrator and a backup who can cover for the lead if necessary.
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