[Analysis of work flow in a radiology center using multi-moment-analysis: methodical principles]

Radiology departments at hospitals are closely watched for their economy. The introduction of fast scanner technology usually triggers questions about simultaneously reducing final report times. The aim of the present study was first to examine, if the multi-moment analysis (MMH) is an appropriate method for structural and quantitative analysis of complex work flows in Radiology, and second, if factors negatively influencing the core processes can be quantitatively evaluated. The study was performed in the Departments of Radiology and Neuroradiology at a major University Hospital in Northern Germany. Randomized monitoring of the workflow of more than 80 doctors and radiology technicians assistants resulted in 800 observations per workplace. The high observation rate yielded a high accuracy (95% confidence interval width of less than +3,5%) to determine the proportion of different work patterns. MMH proved to be an appropriate means to analyze and quantify complex work flows at a university radiology centre. Different workplaces could be compared and total daily labor time could be derived from the observations. Circadian variabilities could be differentiated. The potential of the MMH to guide workflow optimization was identified. On the basis of data collected, MMH restructuring and control systems can be planned.