Download as a PDFPUKKA-J SUPPLY THE UNIVERSITY WEST OF ENGLAND WITH PACS SYSTEM
The University of the West of England recently became the first Higher Education Institute in the UK to purchase a PACS system for use in a learning environment. The system, which was acquired for the Faculty of Health and Social Care at the University, was part of an equipment procurement, which aimed to provide students and staff with access to modern imaging facilities. The concept, which was conceived in 2003, finally came to fruition with the recent opening of the new imaging suite in October 2005.
The new imaging suite comprises a Xograph ceiling suspended X-ray system and Fuji Computed Radiography System together with Pukka-J’s PACS installation. Integrated with the Fuji CR system, PACS stores a database of images generated by the new system and the University is further developing clinical links with neighbouring Trust hospitals. The Pukka-J system, which is fully DICOM compatible, was chosen for its ease-of-use and flexibility.
A key element of the new system is the possibility of utilising a web-based image viewing platform, which provides access to images for both students and staff. It is possible to log-on and pick up images from virtually anywhere. This highly effective web-based learning environment has been facilitated mainly through java based technology; the Faculty predicts that it will open up new learning strategies and pave the way to the development of e-learning as an efficient teaching tool. In addition to the remote viewing capabilities, the University has purchased a number of dedicated workstations for students to perform advanced processing tasks.
The School itself is particularly keen to expand and develop learning strategies that will encompass the recently installed equipment. Marc Griffiths, Senior Lecturer Diagnostic Imaging and Programme Leader Nuclear Medicine, says,
Simulating clinical practice and the developments in technology was a key driver in the implementation of the new facilities and such areas of practice will be embedded within the programme curriculum. This investment demonstrates the University’s commitment to providing high quality and effective learning opportunities for students.
It is anticipated that the web based image viewing platform will also be utilised on post qualification programmes, such as the Nuclear Medicine programme, further enhancing students learning.
For further information, contact us
Stuart Grange, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Imaging, Louise Crossley, Business Development Manager, Pukka-J and Marc Griffiths, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for MSc in Nuclear Medicine