In radiology and medical imaging, "electronic picture archiving and communication systems" (PACS) have been developed to provide storage, rapid retrieval and access to images acquired with various modalities also allowing simultaneous access at multiple sites".

Electronic images are transmitted digitally and this eliminates the need to manually file, retrieve, or transport hard copy films. The universal format for PACS image storage and transfer is DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine).

A PACS consists of four major components: the imaging modalities such as CR, CT and MRI etc, a secured network for the transmission of patient information, workstations for interpreting and reviewing images, and archives for the storage and retrieval of images and reports.

Combined with available Web technology, PACS has the ability to access images and interpretations. PACS breaks down the physical and time barriers associated with conventional film-based image retrieval, distribution, and display.