Improving MRI Access: A framework for optimizing MRI scheduling templates.

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Medical Imaging
• Healthcare Operations Management
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Ensuring equitable and timely care in radiology requires aligning imaging capacity with patient demand.
• The Joint Department of Medical Imaging (JDMI) identified a need to optimize Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scheduling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement a 5-step framework for reviewing and updating MRI schedule templates at JDMI.
• To achieve optimal alignment between MRI scheduling and patient demand across diverse populations.

Main Methods:

• A 5-step process involving baseline data analysis, current state assessment through interviews and observations, schedule updates, process improvement review, and go-live planning.
• Stakeholder governance by clinical, clerical, and operational leadership.

Main Results:

• Initial analysis revealed up to 11% misalignment between MRI schedules and demand in certain divisions.
• Updated schedules reduced variance from demand to a maximum of 3%.
• 27 additional inpatient MRI slots were allocated, and process improvements were implemented for scheduling and workflow management.

Conclusions:

• The MRI Schedule Optimization project successfully realigned schedules with patient needs, improving access and efficiency at JDMI.
• The implemented 5-step framework is adaptable for schedule optimization in other radiology departments.