[Patient satisfaction with radiologists in private practice]

Radiology is an interface discipline. The radiologist must provide answers for various diagnostic questions in a short time by means of various examinations. The patient as well as the referring physician must be adequately and appropriately considered within a reasonable period, at the same time ensuring a high quality of examination with the lowest possible radiation exposure.

Over a 4-month period, a total of 102 patient interviews and 259 physician-patient interviews on patient satisfaction were randomly analyzed, specifically patient-physician communication and patient expectations and physician satisfaction and patient expectations. A psychologist carried out the questioning of the patients. Four radiologists evaluated their patient interaction using a standardized questionnaire, which was anonymized with regard to the patient data, based on a visual analogue scale.

The patients displayed a high level of satisfaction with the discussion of radiologic findings. There was a positive correlation between the satisfaction with the discussion of findings and the clarity about the further steps necessary. Looking at the radiologists, there was also a positive correlation between the satisfaction with the patient interview and the fulfillment of the expectations; overall, physician's satisfaction with the interview was less positive than patient satisfaction.

The radiologic patient is generally satisfied with the visit to the radiologist if a brief, understandable explanation of the disease is given, complemented by instructive next necessary steps.