Impacting key performance indicators in an academic MR imaging department through process improvement

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Imaging Science
• Healthcare Management
• Process Engineering

Background:

• Academic MRI departments face challenges in optimizing workflow and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Evaluating and improving operational processes is crucial for enhancing patient care and efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of process improvement (PI) on key performance indicators (KPIs) within a large academic MRI department.
• To identify specific workflow aspects amenable to PI for enhancing operational efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Key performance indicators (KPIs) including backlogs, on-time performance, volumes, and scan durations were tracked.
• A multidisciplinary team analyzed patient flow from scheduling to interpretation over a 3-week period.
• Workflow changes were implemented, and KPIs were compared pre- and post-intervention using statistical tests.

Main Results:

• Process improvement initiatives led to multiple workflow modifications in the MRI department.
• A stronger sense of teamwork and staff empowerment was observed.
• All measured KPIs demonstrated statistically significant improvements post-reengineering.

Conclusions:

• Intradepartmental process improvement (PI) efforts can substantially enhance key performance indicators (KPIs) in MRI departments.
• Workflow optimization resulted in a more patient-centered process.
• Significant operational growth was achieved without necessitating additional equipment or personnel.