Communication between general practitioners and radiologists: opinions, experience, promises, pitfalls

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Medical Imaging
• General Practice and Primary Care

Background:

• The communication between radiologists and general practitioners (GPs) is crucial for effective patient management.
• Existing literature on GP perspectives regarding radiology reports is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey general practitioners' (GPs) views on radiology reports.
• To identify areas for improvement in radiologist-GP communication.

Main Methods:

• A large-scale survey was distributed to GPs in Flanders, Belgium.
• Respondents rated 46 statements and provided free-text suggestions.
• Quantitative data and qualitative feedback were analyzed.

Main Results:

• 96.8% of GPs consider radiology reports indispensable; 85.5% are satisfied.
• GPs favor itemized reporting for complex examinations.
• Key suggestions include emphasizing the radiologist's clinical role, marking key images, reporting normal findings, and improving report structure and communication.

Conclusions:

• GPs expect radiologists to provide clinical reasoning and answers.
• While electronic systems can help, direct communication remains vital.
• Enhancing the clinical relevance and communication within radiology reports is essential.