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Radiology reporting: attitudes of referring physicians
N J Clinger1, T B Hunter, B J Hillman
1Department of Radiology, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson 85724.
Radiology
|December 1, 1988
Summary
Referring physicians rated radiology reports highly but desired improvements in clarity and clinical question relevance. Preferences varied on summary placement, with some finding report turnaround times too long.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Communication
- Healthcare Administration
Background:
- Radiology reports are crucial for communicating imaging interpretations.
- Physician preferences regarding radiology report format and content are not well-understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey referring physicians on their opinions of radiology reports.
- To identify areas for improvement in radiology report quality and delivery.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to all physicians referring patients to the radiology department.
- Two hundred fifty-one physicians (42% response rate) provided their opinions.
Main Results:
- Overall report quality averaged 8/10. 59% found reports clear, but 40% occasionally found them confusing.
- 49% felt reports sometimes inadequately addressed clinical questions. 32% preferred summaries at the beginning, 29% at the end.
- 16% reported excessive report turnaround times.
Conclusions:
- Radiology reports are generally well-regarded but require enhancements in clarity and clinical relevance.
- Report format, particularly summary placement, and delivery timeliness are key areas for departmental consideration.