Analytics Methodology to Quantify MRI Exam Utilization

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Imaging Science
• Health Informatics
• Medical Workflow Optimization

Background:

• Quantifying clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exam utilization is complex.
• Analytics tools are crucial for identifying areas for improvement and enhancing MRI's value.
• Existing methods for assessing MRI utilization lack comprehensive quantification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate an analytics methodology for quantifying MRI exam utilization.
• To demonstrate the practical application of this methodology in improving MRI workflow.
• To establish a data-driven approach for optimizing MRI protocols and value.

Main Methods:

• Developed a novel analytics methodology to quantify MRI exam utilization.
• Applied the methodology to assess three distinct interventions: protocol comparison, workflow evaluation for rectal cancer staging, and MR enterography protocol modification.
• Utilized statistical analysis to determine the significance of observed changes in exam time (P < 0.05).

Main Results:

• Successfully developed and validated an analytics methodology for MRI utilization.
• Implemented interventions led to significant reductions in average MRI exam times.
• Specific examples include a 4:33 min reduction for rectal cancer staging and a 9:55 min reduction for MR enterography.

Conclusions:

• The developed analytics methodology provides an objective strategy for quantifying MRI utilization.
• Data-driven insights from analytics enable informed decisions for protocol modification and value enhancement.
• Application of these tools improves MRI workflow efficiency and reduces patient scan times.