Administrator jobs in picture archiving and communications systems (PACS) have become more important as technology has progressed. The majority of PACS administrator jobs are in hospitals, though specialized medical offices may also have openings. In order to properly carry out the required job duties, PACS administrators must have both technical and medical knowledge and skills. Certified positions as associates, interface analysts, system analysts, and system managers, as well as various types of support personnel, are among the various PACS administrator jobs.
Because all images are digital, the PACS system reduces the time it takes to retrieve and distribute an image, such as an X-ray. PACS administrators oversee the PACS system’s servers and workstations, as well as monitor the system, manage image storage, and troubleshoot and resolve issues. Quality control, security, and the ability to train others to use the system properly are all required skills for PACS administrators. In addition, they must input digital image data into the system or database. It’s also beneficial to be familiar with digital imaging and communications in medicine (DICM) and radiology information systems (RIS).
PACS administrator positions are most common in hospital radiology departments. These administrators could work in departments such as cardiology, pathology, nuclear medicine, or radiation therapy, to name a few. Because technology is such an important part of the job, some PACS administrator positions are directly linked to hospital IT departments.
For various PACS administrator jobs, there are several types of certifications, each requiring slightly different skill sets and knowledge. The integration and connection of the PACS and RIS systems is the responsibility of a certified PACS Interface Analyst (CPIA). This is a position that requires a lot of technical knowledge.
The certified PACS System Manager is the highest level of PACS certification (CPSM). The CPIA and CPSA certifications are both prerequisites for this certification. A Certified PACS System Analyst (CPSA) must have a broad understanding of the PACS system’s components, as well as clinical and administrative functions. A Certified PACS Associate (CPA) should be familiar with both technology and clinical procedures.
Other PACS administrator jobs include support personnel in addition to specific certifications. These jobs can be specialized as well, but they do not necessitate certification. Many hospitals and institutions that hire PACS administrators prefer that the employee has a bachelor’s degree in either medicine or technology, as well as some kind of medical work experience. There are schools and programs dedicated solely to medical technology education, and an aspiring PACS administrator could receive training for a variety of PACS administrator jobs at these institutions.