Networking, PACS/DICOM & System Integration

Syllabus

# CTM 125 - Networking, PACS/DICOM & System Integration

## Course Description
This course provides a comprehensive foundation in network technologies, Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS), and Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) standards essential for advanced medical imaging service technicians. Students will learn to troubleshoot network connectivity, interpret DICOM service object pairs (SOPs), understand HL7 messaging for system integration, and apply cybersecurity principles to protect sensitive patient data and imaging infrastructure. Emphasis is placed on practical application for effective system integration and maintenance in a clinical environment.

## Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
*   Explain fundamental network topologies, protocols, and addressing schemes relevant to medical imaging systems.
*   Analyze and troubleshoot common network connectivity issues affecting imaging modalities and PACS.
*   Interpret DICOM conformance statements and implement DICOM services for image storage, query/retrieve, and printing.
*   Describe the architecture and workflow of PACS, including image acquisition, archiving, and distribution.
*   Identify the basic structure and purpose of HL7 messages in integrating medical devices and information systems.
*   Apply fundamental cybersecurity principles to safeguard medical imaging systems and protected health information (PHI).

## Topics by Week
*   **Week 1:** Introduction to Networking Fundamentals for Medical Imaging
*   **Week 2:** Network Protocols and Services in Healthcare IT
*   **Week 3:** IP Addressing, Subnetting, and Network Diagnostics
*   **Week 4:** Introduction to DICOM Standard and Architecture
*   **Week 5:** DICOM Service Object Pairs (SOPs) and Conformance Statements
*   **Week 6:** DICOM Network Services: Storage, Query/Retrieve, and Worklist
*   **Week 7:** PACS Architecture and Workflow
*   **Week 8:** PACS Components and Integration with Modalities
*   **Week 9:** Introduction to HL7 Standard and Message Structure
*   **Week 10:** HL7 Messaging for System Integration
*   **Week 11:** Network Security Fundamentals for Medical Devices
*   **Week 12:** Cybersecurity Best Practices for Imaging Systems
*   **Week 13:** Midterm Review
*   **Week 14:** Final Exam Review

## Grading
*   Knowledge Checks: 15%
*   Assignments and Labs: 30%
*   Quizzes: 25%
*   Final Exam: 30%

## Policies
*   **Attendance:** Active participation in online discussions and timely submission of assignments are expected. Students are responsible for all material covered in lectures and labs.
*   **Late Submissions:** Late assignments will incur a penalty of 10% per day, up to a maximum of 50%. Extensions may be granted for documented emergencies, provided the instructor is notified in advance.
*   **Academic Integrity:** All work submitted must be original. Plagiarism or any other form of academic dishonesty will result in a failing grade for the assignment and may lead to further disciplinary action.
*   **Communication:** Students are encouraged to use the designated course communication channels for questions and discussions. The instructor will respond to inquiries within 24-48 business hours.
*   **Disability Services:** Anode Technical Institute is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students needing accommodations should contact the Disability Services office to arrange support.