What standard is used to retrieve images and data from various imaging equipment vendors?

The standard used to retrieve images and data from various imaging equipment vendors is DICOM, which stands for Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine. DICOM serves as a crucial framework for handling, storing, and transmitting medical images and related information across different devices and systems in healthcare.

DICOM is specifically designed to ensure interoperability among different imaging devices and systems, allowing for the seamless exchange of imaging data regardless of the manufacturer. This standard includes specifications for image file formats, as well as protocols and network communications that facilitate the transfer of medical imaging data between modalities like MRI, CT, ultrasound, and more.

By adhering to the DICOM standard, healthcare providers can efficiently manage and share diagnostic images and associated information, improving collaboration among clinicians and enhancing patient care.

The other standards mentioned serve different purposes within healthcare information systems. For instance, LOINC is used for coding laboratory and clinical observations, HL7 focuses on the exchange of clinical and administrative data, and ASC X12N pertains to electronic data interchange formats for transactions in healthcare billing.