Autopage and the use of computer scripts to automate microtasks

Area of Science:

• Radiology Informatics
• Clinical Communication Systems
• Medical Imaging Workflow Optimization

Background:

• Radiologists frequently page referring clinicians with imaging results, a critical task for patient care.
• Current alpha-paging systems, while functional, can disrupt radiologist workflow due to excessive mouse clicks.
• Efficient communication of imaging findings is essential for timely clinical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a portable tool to streamline the process of paging referring clinicians with imaging results.
• To reduce the time and number of steps required for radiologists to communicate critical findings.
• To improve radiologist workflow efficiency by minimizing disruptions associated with electronic paging.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel software tool integrating study data from the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS).
• Implementation of a two-keystroke function for sending alpha-pages to referring clinicians.
• Evaluation of the tool's usability and impact on radiologist workflow and communication efficiency.

Main Results:

• The developed tool enables alpha-paging with only two keystrokes, significantly reducing manual input.
• Integration with PACS and hospital paging systems allows for seamless data transfer.
• The tool is designed to minimize workflow disruption compared to traditional multi-click paging methods.

Conclusions:

• A new, efficient two-keystroke tool has been developed for radiologists to page referring clinicians with imaging results.
• This innovation enhances radiologist workflow and facilitates safer, more efficient patient care.
• Further updates and evaluations aim to optimize this communication tool within clinical practice.