Variation in repeat rates between 18 radiology departments

Area of Science:

• Radiological practice
• Medical imaging
• Diagnostic radiology

Background:

• Repeat examinations in diagnostic radiology increase costs and patient radiation exposure.
• Understanding repeat rates is crucial for optimizing radiological efficiency and patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive analysis of repeat rates in diagnostic X-ray departments across Wales.
• To investigate interdepartmental and intradepartmental variations in repeat rates for common radiographic examinations.
• To assess the impact of trainee practitioners and automatic exposure control (AEC) devices on repeat rates.

Main Methods:

• Observational study design.
• Analysis of repeat rates for specific examinations: chest, abdomen, pelvis, sinus, lumbar spine, cervical spine, and intravenous pyelography.
• Consideration of confounding factors such as trainee practitioners and AEC devices.

Main Results:

• Repeat radiographs contribute significantly to overall film costs and patient exposure.
• Estimated 10% of total film cost is attributable to repeat radiographs.
• Estimated 14% of total patient exposure is attributable to repeat radiographs.

Conclusions:

• Repeat radiographs represent a substantial inefficiency in diagnostic radiology.
• Findings highlight the need for strategies to reduce repeat rates, thereby improving cost-effectiveness and minimizing patient radiation dose.
• Further investigation into the specific causes of repeats related to trainee practitioners and AEC devices is warranted.