The Pre-Fetch process ensures smart retrieval of studies from the Long-Term Storage Manager server to the Online Storage Manager server.
The Pre-Fetch uses preconfigured rules to automatically decide which studies must be brought online and when, based on data received from the HIS. The list of studies is then sent to the Info Router, which issues the request to move the studies from the Long-Term Storage Manager server to the Online Storage Manager server, thereby enabling fast image retrieval. For example, the RIS notifies the Workflow Manager when a patient enters the system.
Pre-Fetch can then retrieve any images related to the patient that are stored on tape and bring them back online for easy access. Pre-Fetch works in two stages:
Decides when the data should be brought online
Decides which data should be brought online
Both stages are controlled by a configurable list of patterns and rules.
Pre-Fetch streamlines the lengthy process of study retrieval from the Long-Term Storage Manager server by retrieving the studies in advance, when possible, at times when there is less demand on server resources.
The diagram below illustrates the stages of the Pre-Fetch process
Three different types of Pre-Fetch can be performed:
Daily Pre-Fetch: In this instance, the CARESTREAM PACS IS Link Software informs the Workflow Manager when there is an order for a scan to be performed or when a patient is admitted to the facility.
The details of the scan (for example, the body part to be scanned) are supplied to the Workflow Manager, if available. Based on this information, the appropriate studies are brought online before the new scan is performed.
In order for Daily Pre-Fetch to work effectively:
The CARESTREAM PACS IS Link Software must be installed at the facility.
The CARESTREAM PACS IS Link Software must be able to communicate with the facility’s RIS server.
The Info Router must be installed at the facility.
A computerized, online scan scheduling system must be used diligently.
Late Pre-Fetch: In this instance, the Workflow Manager receives images from an AE and queries the server for the patient’s history.
This type of Pre-Fetch process is useful when there is no internal information system at the facility, or in case of an emergency when there is no opportunity to retrieve the patient’s history in advance.
Night Pre-Fetch: In this instance, the CARESTREAM PACS IS Link Software informs the Workflow Manager that a patient is scheduled to come in for a specific scan.
The details of the scan (for example, the body part to be scanned) are supplied to the CARESTREAM PACS Workflow Manager, if available. Based on this information, the appropriate studies are brought online the night before the patient arrives at the facility.
In order for Night Pre-Fetch to work effectively:
The CARESTREAM PACS IS Link Software must be installed at the facility.
The CARESTREAM PACS IS Link Software must be able to communicate with the facility’s RIS and HIS servers.
The Info Router must be installed at the facility.
A computerized, online scan scheduling system must be used diligently.
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