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371
Improved Screening Mammogram Workflow by Maximizing PACS Streamlining Capabilities in an Academic Breast Center
Ramya Pham1, Daniel Forsberg2,3, Donna Plecha2
1Department of Radiology, Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA. ramya.pham@uhhospitals.org.
Journal of Digital Imaging
|October 22, 2016
Summary
Operational improvements in breast imaging workflow significantly reduced screening mammogram interpretation times by 60%. This project enhanced efficiency without impacting diagnostic mammogram workflows, even with increased patient volume.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Healthcare Operations
Background:
- Mammography interpretation workflow at academic medical centers can face delays.
- Paperwork stockpiling and multiple worklists were identified as key bottlenecks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement and evaluate operational improvements in the breast imaging reading workflow for mammography.
- To reduce delays in interpreting screening mammograms.
Main Methods:
- Implemented workflow changes: paperwork scanning, worklist consolidation, chat functionality, and trainee case tracking.
- Collected timestamp data two months before and after implementation.
- Analyzed data using generalized linear models.
Main Results:
- Average time to open a screening mammogram case decreased by 60% (70 to 28 min).
- Report turnaround time with preliminary signature decreased by 29% (151 to 107 min).
- Report turnaround time with final signature decreased by 9% (153 to 139 min).
- Workflow efficiency for diagnostic mammograms remained stable despite a 31% increase in volume.
Conclusions:
- Targeted operational improvements can significantly enhance screening mammogram interpretation efficiency in academic settings.
- Workflow enhancements did not negatively impact diagnostic mammogram efficiency or volume handling.
