WE-C-217A-01: Risk Estimation versus Risk Perception

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Public and scientific attention on ionizing radiation risks from medical imaging.
• Patient reluctance to undergo necessary procedures due to perceived risks.
• Limitations of scientific data in addressing patient concerns about radiation risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explain patient behavior regarding medical imaging risks.
• To highlight the role of psychological factors in risk perception.
• To identify conditions for patient comfort with radiation-based procedures.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of psychological factors influencing risk perception.
• Review of patient concerns versus scientific risk-benefit data.
• Exploration of trust and safety perceptions in medical imaging.

Main Results:

• Risk perception is influenced by psychological factors, not solely scientific data.
• Patients' willingness to undergo procedures depends on perceived safety and provider trustworthiness.
• Understanding risk perception is crucial for patient acceptance of medical imaging.

Conclusions:

• Psychological factors significantly impact patient acceptance of medical imaging.
• Building patient trust and ensuring perceived safety are vital for adherence to medically appropriate procedures.
• Addressing patient concerns requires acknowledging both scientific data and psychological elements of risk perception.