UHNM Team of the Month Award: PACS Refresh Project Team
Staff from across UHNM involved in a ‘vast and complex project’ to upgrade the Trust’s central imaging database have received recognition for their hard work.
UHNM’s picture archiving communications system (PACS), which houses over 11 million imaging and x-ray studies, is required to be updated every five years.
Colleagues from digital services, estates, imaging, as well as a dedicated PACS team joined PFI partners in the 18-month project.
Those involved in the project were nominated for their award by Dave Ruscoe, deputy director of estates, facilities and PFI.
Dave said: “The refresh of our PACS system sounds straightforward on the surface, however the complexity and number of systems used to operate it is vast and complex.
“A special project team was formed to ensure a plan was mutually agreed and delivered. This team demonstrated extremely high levels of professionalism, immense knowledge, and a willingness to engage, fostering high levels of trust and respect for each party. The safe environment created allowed for open discussion and quick resolution to any challenges faced.”
The system changeover, which took place in December, was completed successfully within seven hours, with minimal impact to clinical activities.
Dave said: “The fact that we have no complaints on the evening is testament the cutover went under the radar and is solely due to the expert teams involved. Completion of this changeover phase of the project was a huge achievement.”
The teams were presented with their certificates by Dr Simon Constable, chief executive.
Dr Constable said: “The fact that this piece of work went almost imperceptible and unnoticed by the rest of the organisation is testament to the collective hard work in pulling it off.
“Whilst the outcome of all this thankfully went unnoticed by most of us, the hard work and dedication of those involved didn’t, and I was delighted to recognise those involved with a project 18 months in the making.”
Martin Dale, PACS manager, said: “It was a technically challenging project, requiring a lot of organisation from all involved. It was critical everything smoothly as we couldn’t afford any downtime in our clinical areas, especially during the middle of a challenging winter.
“Everybody pulled together, without the team it wouldn’t have happened, it took so many people to make possible.
“It’s very nice to be nominated for and receive this award. You don’t seek anything for doing it, the main satisfaction comes from the fact that it went almost unnoticed. We wanted to be in the background making things work, but it’s nice to be recognised for that.”