Cost assessment of filmless ultrasound using unit cost analysis

Filmless ultrasound is illustrated to be a viable operation from a cost standpoint. Substantial cost savings can be realized in filmless operation by reducing labor intensive activities and consumables and increasing productivity. Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), a system for digitally acquiring, storing, retrieving, transmitting and displaying images, lends itself to economies of scale making it feasible at large institutions. It can not only pay its own way, but also provide a reasonable return of investment.