Estimating the cost of picture archiving and communications system (PACS) using " step- down" method in Shiraz, Iran 2014

Due to the increasing cost of health care and resource limitations, this section requires calculating costs in order to make informed decisions as a management tool for the evaluation of health care service. This study was aimed to estimate the cost of PACS using “Step- Down” method in Shahid Motahari & Emam Reza Polyclinics-Shiraz in the first six months of 2014.
This practical research was done by descriptive method in a Cross-sectional and retrospective form during the year 2013. Data was collected through direct observation, information sheets of hospital and by interviewing with radiologists and administrative staff. After gathering data, using step down costing method, the unit costs of PACS in these centers in the first six month of 1393, (2014) were calculated by using an Excel software.
According to the findings, equipment cost was1467174808 that involved 90% from total costs of PACS implementation which is the highest share of costs. Current cost was 160889198 that obtained 10% of costs. PACS cost per graph was 107109 Rials.
Based on the research findings, through improving performance especially by training personnel, the unique advantages of tele-radiology can be used by implementation of this system.