Peer learning in emergency radiology: effects on learning, error identification, and radiologist experience

We established and evaluated a peer learning program in an emergency radiology (ER) division. Peer learning is an alternative to peer review focusing on non-punitive error reporting to mitigate consequences of inevitable human error. The central component is the peer learning conference, where cases are presented, key teaching points are discussed, and process improvement ideas are solicited.

We established a prior imaging-based case identification system and a bimonthly remote videoconference where ER faculty discuss 5-15 cases selected for learning or process improvement opportunities. Case identification and conference characteristics were captured. A survey focused on learning and performance outcomes was administered to faculty initially and showed improved scores after 6 months.

Cases selected for conference favored perception errors (46%), with great calls (17%) and process improvement (15%) the next most common categories. A variety of anatomical regions were represented, with abdominal (35%) and musculoskeletal (29%) most common. Error detection was improved over peer review. All participants find the system easy to use and prefer peer learning to peer review for learning and process improvement.

A peer learning program can be successfully implemented within a busy academic emergency radiology division, as evidenced by increasing buy-in and engagement scores over time. When tied to a departmental peer learning infrastructure, interdisciplinary expertise and robust case identification can be leveraged to increase learning opportunities.