The DICOM Viewer is for investigational use only and cannot be used for primary diagnosis in medical imaging.
100% Web-Based
No need to download or install software. Access your medical images directly in your browser from any device.
Advanced Visualization
Zoom, pan, adjust contrast, and use multiple viewing modes for precise image analysis.
Secure & Private
Your data stays safe—no storage, no sharing. Files are processed in your browser without leaving your device.
Supports Multiple Modalities
View DICOM files from CT, MRI, X-ray, ultrasound, and PET scans effortlessly.
Fast & Easy to Use
Just drag and drop your files to start viewing immediately. No sign-up required.
No Account or Setup Needed
Simply load and view your scans—no registration, no personal data needed.
Can DICOM images be emailed safely to another provider or patient?
Yes, you can email DICOM images, but you must use proper encryption and security measures. DICOM files contain sensitive patient information, so sending them without encryption can break privacy laws like HIPAA. Use secure email platforms or encrypted ZIP files for safe and compliant transfer.
What are DICOM images?
DICOM images are medical images saved in the DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) format. They include both the image, such as an X-ray, CT, or MRI, and important patient data like name, ID, and scan details. It provides safe and standard image sharing and viewing across healthcare systems.
What is the average file size of compressed vs. uncompressed DICOM images?
Uncompressed DICOM images can range from 5 MB (X-ray) to over 500 MB (MRI or CT series). Compressed DICOM files that use JPEG 2000 or lossless formats are usually 30–70% smaller, depending on the modality and resolution. Compression lowers storage costs without affecting diagnostic image quality significantly.
Is there a free DICOM viewer that supports 3D imaging?
Several free DICOM viewers support 3D imaging, including Medicai free DICOM Viewer, RadiAnt (with a free trial), Weasis, and Horos (for Mac users). These tools help view CT and MRI scans in various planes or as 3D images, ideal for radiology review, education, or research without a license fee.
How does a PACS system use the DICOM standard?
A PACS system uses the DICOM standard to manage medical images. It helps healthcare providers store, retrieve, view, and share images from different devices. DICOM makes sure that images from CT, MRI, X-ray, and ultrasound machines are saved consistently. It provides seamless communication among imaging devices, workstations, and healthcare providers.
What types of files use the DICOM standard?
The DICOM standard is used for medical images like X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, PET scans, and radiation therapy images. These files contain both the images and important patient information. It helps doctors and healthcare providers easily view, store, and share these images across different medical systems.
Can DICOM work with HL7 or FHIR for medical image sharing?
DICOM handles storing and sharing medical images. HL7 and FHIR manage patient data and clinical processes. Together, they offer safe and complete sharing of images. DICOM manages the images, while HL7 or FHIR links patient records, orders, and reports in healthcare systems.
Can you download DICOM images from a hospital or PACS system?
You can download DICOM images from a hospital or PACS system, but only authorized users can access them. Patients can request copies through a patient portal or the medical records department. Downloads usually come in DICOM format, that are viewable with free DICOM viewer software for personal or clinical use.
Can DICOM files be encrypted for secure transmission?
Yes. You can encrypt DICOM files using TLS (Transport Layer Security) to keep data safe during transmission. It keeps patient information and medical images private and protected when shared over networks. It also helps meet compliance standards like HIPAA and supports safe teleradiology and remote diagnostics.
Can you convert DICOM to JPEG and other formats?
Yes, you can convert DICOM files into JPEG, PNG, PDF, NIfTI, STL, and other formats using specific software or tools like the Medicai DICOM viewer. These conversions help you to share, view, or process medical images outside of clinical systems while keeping their diagnostic quality intact.
Are there any limitations to using online DICOM viewers?
Online DICOM viewers rely on stable internet connections and modern browsers, which can affect performance with large datasets or high-resolution images. Free versions may lack advanced features like 3D rendering or PACS integration. Security risks exist if the platform lacks encryption or compliance with HIPAA/GDPR. Many viewers are not FDA-cleared for diagnostic use, limiting clinical applications. Additionally, they may not scale well for large organizations, and some platforms have a learning curve for new users. Selecting the right viewer depends on your specific functionality, security, and integration capabilities needs.
What are the benefits of using an online DICOM viewer?
Are my medical images secure when using an online DICOM viewer?
Yes, your medical images are secure as long as the platform processes files locally on your device without uploading them to external servers. Many professional-grade viewers comply with HIPAA and other privacy standards to ensure patient data security. Some platforms include tools for anonymizing sensitive patient information in compliance with privacy regulations.
What are the system requirements for using an online DICOM viewer?
A stable internet connection and a modern web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox) are typically sufficient. Advanced features may require higher hardware specifications. No special hardware is needed; most viewers work on standard devices like desktops or laptops with internet access. Most platforms are compatible with popular browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge.
What types of medical images can I view with an online DICOM viewer?
Most online viewers support MRI, CT scans, X-rays, PET scans, ultrasound images, and other modalities stored in the DICOM format. Some online DICOM viewers offer advanced features like 3D rendering and MPR (multi-planar reconstruction) for enhanced analysis.
What is an online DICOM viewer?
An online DICOM viewer is a web-based application that allows users to view and analyze medical imaging files (e.g., MRI, CT, and X-ray) directly in their browser without installing additional software. The viewer processes DICOM files locally on the device through the browser, ensuring data privacy and security while enabling features like zooming, windowing, and annotations.
Medicai is a cloud-native, enterprise-grade medical imaging solution for secure, compliant data management. It allows teams to access imaging data from anywhere via web or mobile apps, while real-time collaboration tools—such as multidisciplinary team (MDT) sessions, second-opinion reviews, and in-app messaging—streamline communication and accelerate clinical decision-making.
Are you a Doctor and looking for a secure way for patients to share their medical files?
Request a FREE 14-Day Trial
Do you manage a healthcare organization and want to enable patients to submit their medical files online?Book a Demo Now