Program for Supporting Frontline Improvement Projects in an Academic Radiology Department

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Radiology Operations
• Quality Improvement Science

Background:

• Academic radiology departments face challenges in operational efficiency and staff engagement.
• Frontline staff possess valuable insights for driving meaningful improvements.
• Structured programs are needed to empower staff in executing improvement initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an ongoing program supporting frontline-led improvement projects in an academic radiology department.
• To quantify the outcomes and costs associated with these initiatives.
• To assess participant satisfaction with the program.

Main Methods:

• Staff were assigned coaches and trained in improvement methodologies.
• Weekly progress reports were presented to department leadership.
• Projects focused on quality improvement, patient satisfaction, staff engagement, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
• Outcomes and costs were aggregated, and participant surveys were conducted.

Main Results:

• 102 projects were completed by 73 participants over two years.
• Annualized outcomes included ~4500 labor hours saved, $315K in supply cost savings, and $42.2M in potential revenue.
• Improvements were noted in patient experience scores and a reduction in safety events.
• Participant feedback was generally favorable, with program support requiring ~0.4 full-time equivalent.

Conclusions:

• The program successfully created a platform for widespread problem-solving within the department.
• It empowered frontline personnel, leading to positive organizational changes and improved staff experiences.
• This model demonstrates a scalable approach to operational improvement in academic radiology.