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Imaging pathways: will they be well trodden or less traveled?
Richard M Mendelson1, Phillip J Bairstow
1Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia. richard.mendelson@health.wa.gov.au
Journal of the American College of Radiology : JACR
|March 3, 2009
Summary
Diagnostic Imaging Pathways (DIP) is an online tool helping clinicians order appropriate medical imaging tests. Implementation challenges remain, but integrating it into electronic requesting systems is a key strategy for improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing costs.
Area of Science:
- Medical informatics
- Clinical decision support
- Evidence-based medicine
Background:
- Inappropriate medical imaging investigations lead to adverse clinical and economic outcomes.
- Diagnostic errors and overutilization of imaging services are significant healthcare challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the development and dissemination of Diagnostic Imaging Pathways (DIP), an online, evidence-based decision support tool.
- To identify challenges and strategies for implementing DIP into clinical practice to improve the appropriateness of imaging requests.
Main Methods:
- DIP was developed using a network of specialists and general practitioners, with content curated by a research fellow evaluating medical literature.
- The application is freely available online, with ongoing development by an information technologist.
- Partnerships are formed to raise awareness and encourage evidence-based practice.
Main Results:
- DIP is freely accessible online, facilitating straightforward dissemination.
- Raising awareness beyond the immediate clinical environment presents a challenge.
- The primary challenge is achieving implementation and compliance with recommended imaging pathways.
Conclusions:
- Diagnostic Imaging Pathways (DIP) offers a valuable resource for evidence-based medical imaging referrals.
- Integrating DIP into electronic requesting workflows is a crucial strategy for improving diagnostic appropriateness.
- Future trials are planned to demonstrate the "proof of concept" for this integration in Australia.
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