A method for processing images in a Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS) is provided. The method includes imaging a patient with an imaging modality to generate raw digital image data and then sending the raw image data to an acquisition workstation. The acquisition workstation then partially processes the raw image data with regard to a predetermined subset of the set of control parameters to form a partially processed image. The subset of control parameters may comprise frequency control parameters or contrast control parameters, for example. The partially processed image may then be sent to an external connection, stored in a database in the PACS, or sent to a display workstation for complete processing and display. A partially processed image that has been stored in a database in the PACS may be retrieved and sent to a display workstation for complete processing and display. The completely processed image may be sent to an external connection, for example, for transmission through an external network, such as the internet.