Radiology resource utilization during an H1N1 influenza outbreak

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Radiology
• Public Health

Background:

• The 2009 novel influenza A (H1N1) outbreak necessitated evaluating healthcare resource utilization.
• Understanding radiology resource demands is crucial for pandemic preparedness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess radiology resource use in patients with novel influenza A (H1N1) during the 2009 outbreak.
• To inform pandemic planning for future influenza seasons.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 66 patients with H1N1 infection who underwent imaging.
• Categorization of patients into intensive care unit (ICU) group (n=14) and non-ICU group (n=52).
• Analysis of imaging histories, including number, type, and timing of procedures.

Main Results:

• Thirty percent of H1N1 patients received radiologic imaging.
• ICU patients underwent extensive imaging: mean 33.5 chest X-rays and 1 CT scan.
• Non-ICU patients had minimal imaging: mean 1.4 chest X-rays and no CT scans.

Conclusions:

• The majority of H1N1 patients (70%) did not require imaging.
• Radiology resource needs are concentrated among severely ill patients requiring ICU care.
• Data aids healthcare organizations in planning radiology resources for H1N1 pandemics.