Strategies for Patient-Centered Communication in the Digital Age

Recently, the major professional societies in Radiology have embarked upon a campaign to increase the patient-centeredness of Radiology. At the foundation of this initiative is direct communication between radiologist and patient, an area that has long been a deficiency for the field. Historically, there have been a number of barriers to effective radiologist-patient communication including logistical challenges, a negative impact on efficiency, and uncertainty of the role of the radiologist in discussing results with patients. The ubiquity of the internet and the wealth of applications that allow the safe transmission of robust information provide a number of opportunities for the radiologist. The purpose of this article is to review key web-based platforms that can improve communication, highlight unique initiatives being employed by thought leaders, and emphasize why radiologist-patient communication is paramount to the patient centered imaging experience.