Use of an automated critical test result management system: effect on message delivery time

Using an automated CTRM system in a radiology department leads to improved delivery of critical test results. Although a significant proportion of the improvement stems from experience, other factors likely contribute (eg, administrative support and acceptance by the medical staff). Longitudinal message documentation data was collected from 8 facilities. Data was evaluated to exclude the null hypothesis (absence of a relationship). CTRM experience (measured in days) was correlated with message delivery time (measured in hours). The goal was to evaluate the relationship between duration of experience and reduction in notification turnaround time (TAT).The inverse relationship of duration of experience with reduced TAT was highly significant, independent of other factors, even though experience only accounted for 25% of the improvement.