Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 9, 2025
Radiation Planning Assistant - A Streamlined, Fully Automated Radiotherapy Treatment Planning System
Published on: April 11, 2018
Process optimization in breast imaging: Exploring advanced roles for medical radiation technologists
Sheena Chung1, Aruna Mahabir1, Chao Li2
1Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Health Network, Sinai Health, Women's College Hospital, Toronto ON.
Medical radiation technologists (MRTs) can optimize breast imaging (BI) services by taking on advanced roles. This study identified care delivery problems and potential task shifts for MRTs to improve patient-centered care.
Area of Science:
- Radiology and Medical Imaging
- Healthcare Operations Management
- Radiologic Technology Advancement
Background:
- Medical imaging (MI) is essential for patient care, with breast imaging (BI) being a complex, multi-modality subspecialty.
- Current BI workflows present opportunities to leverage the skills of medical radiation technologists (MRTs) for enhanced, patient-centered service delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically identify and characterize care delivery problems (CDPs) within BI processes.
- To explore opportunities for task shifting and the implementation of advanced roles for MRTs to optimize patient care.
Main Methods:
- Three BI clinics at academic hospitals mapped 12 distinct processes using swimlane charts.
- Care delivery problems (CDPs) were identified and prioritized using the PEPPA framework, focusing on task shifting for MRTs.
Main Results:
- Nine CDPs were identified across BI workflows, with scheduling and radiologist availability being most frequent.
- Potential advanced MRT roles include reviewing external imaging, exam ordering/protocoling, and performing specific procedures like screening ultrasounds.
Conclusions:
- Advanced practice roles for MRTs can address system inefficiencies in BI.
- Systematic implementation and evaluation of pilot advanced MRT roles are recommended to optimize patient care.
More Related Videos
05:18Author Spotlight: Improving Radiation Therapy Access with Radiation Planning Assistant
Published on: October 6, 2023
07:57Positron Emission Tomography-based Dose Painting Radiation Therapy in a Glioblastoma Rat Model using the Small Animal Radiation Research Platform
Published on: March 24, 2022
Related Concept Videos
01:30Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
01:13Radiological Investigation III: Pulmonary Angiogram and PET Scan
Pulmonary Angiogram
A Pulmonary Angiogram is an invasive procedure involving injecting a contrast medium through a catheter threaded into the pulmonary artery or the right side of the heart to visualize the pulmonary vasculature. Computed Tomography (CT) scans have mainly replaced this...
01:14Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
01:30Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
01:25Imaging Studies II: Positron Emission Tomography and Scintigraphy
Fundamental Principles of PET
01:29Positron Emission Tomography
One of the main requirements of a PET scan is a positron-emitting radioisotope, which is produced in a cyclotron and then attached to a substance used by the part of the body...