Facilitating Collaboration Across the Radiology Department by Expanding Access to Real-Time CT Protocols

CT protocols can provide valuable information and guidance to radiologists, technologists, physicists, schedulers, and nurses. However, accessibility to up-to-date information is limited in practice. Variable protocol formats, vendor-specific parameters, and the lack of a structured protocol change process generate multiple asynchronous versions of protocols. In addition, the need for user-dependent protocol content further hinders the success of establishing a usable online protocol site. To address these challenges, a centralized intranet hub was developed by integrating four essential components: vendor-neutral technical protocol reformatting, machine-neutral clinical protocol templates, user-dependent customized interface design, and automated publication of protocols on the intranet. The improved workflow streamlined the process of creating, disseminating, and utilizing protocols. The standardization of protocols and accessibility of information have facilitated collaboration among multidisciplinary teams for effective CT operation in the radiology department.