Exploring the value of using patient-oriented MRI reports in clinical practice - a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Patient Communication

Background:

• Standard radiology reports (SRR) can cause patient anxiety due to direct access without physician guidance.
• Prostate MRI interpretation challenges necessitate improved patient communication methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a patient-centred prostate MRI template report (PACERR).
• To evaluate if PACERR improves patient knowledge and experience compared to SRR.

Main Methods:

• Pilot study with 40 patients undergoing prostate MRI, randomized to SRR or SRR + PACERR.
• Questionnaires assessed understanding, usefulness, next steps, and emotional experience.
• Knowledge was tested via short-answer questions; clinical encounters were observed.

Main Results:

• PACERR group showed higher understanding (p=0.006), usefulness (p<0.001), and next steps identification (p=0.003).
• PACERRs were rated more patient-friendly (p<0.001) and easier to understand (p<0.001).
• PACERR group achieved higher knowledge scores (87% vs. 56%, p=0.004).

Conclusions:

• PACERR enhances patient understanding of prostate MRI results.
• PACERR better prepares patients for engaging in discussions with their physicians.