On 26 November 2009, Nothern Ireland's Health Minister Michael McGimpsey launched the new 'Picture Archiving and Communications System' (NIPACS) in the Ulster Hospital in Dundonald (Belfast, county Antrim).

NIPACS is a regional radiology information system which permits the sharing of all radiology images and associated reports at any authorised location.

Speaking at the [launch] event, Michael McGimpsey said: "I have been very impressed by the magnificent equipment which really is of the highest specification, and its marvellous potential for improving services. The availability of these facilities will deliver real benefits to patients."

"This new technology, which will cost £31million [*] over 10 years, will link together Picture and Archiving systems throughout Northern Ireland and will allow doctors to see images in other hospital sites. This will result in quicker diagnosis and treatment for patients, and will contribute to a much more efficient and productive health and social care system.

"Over the course of next year [2010], all Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland will have this state of the art equipment installed, which will improve efficiency and productivity within the health and social care sector."

According to Northern Ireland Executive, this development is yet another example of how it is investing in the Health Service to ensure that patients and clinicians see real improvements.

[*] approximately €35 million  

Note: Crown copyright material reproduced with the permission of the Controller of HMSO.

 

Further information: 

• Official press release - Northern Ireland Executive