Introduction to digital medical image management: departmental concerns.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this article is to provide an overview of the considerations that are faced when a film-based imaging department transitions to a filmless practice. Both departmental and enterprise issues will be discussed in the context of a single geographically confined campus.

CONCLUSION: A successful transition to a filmless practice results from applying imaging informatics principles and using established standard, appropriate change management practices, all coordinated by a team of representative stakeholders.