Back to Search
Start Over
Implementing a Streamlined Radiology Workflow to Close the Loop on Incidental Imaging Findings in the Emergency Department.
- Source :
- Journal of Digital Imaging; Jun2023, Vol. 36 Issue 3, p776-786, 11p, 3 Diagrams, 6 Charts, 1 Graph
- Publication Year :
- 2023
-
Abstract
- Actionable incidental findings (AIFs) are common imaging findings unrelated to the clinical indication for the imaging test for which follow-up is recommended. Increasing utilization of imaging in the emergency department (ED) in recent years has resulted in more patients with AIFs. When these findings are not properly communicated and followed up upon, there is harm to the patient's health outcome as well as possible increased financial costs for the patient, the health system, and potential litigation. Tracking these findings can be difficult, especially so in a large health system. In this report, we detail our experience implementing a closed-loop AIF program within the ED of 11 satellite hospitals of a large academic health system. Our new workflow streamlined radiologist reporting of AIFs through system macros and by using a standardized form integrated into the dictation software. Upon completion of the form, an automatic email is sent to a dedicated nurse navigator who documented the findings and closed the loop by coordinating follow-up imaging or clinic visits with patients, primary care providers, and specialists. Through the new workflow, a total of 1207 incidental finding reports have been submitted from July 2021 to May 2022. The vast majority of AIFs were identified on CT, and the most common categories included lung nodules, pancreas lesions, liver lesions, and other potentially cancerous lesions. At least 10 new cancers have been detected. We hope this report can help guide other health systems in the design of a closed-loop incidental findings program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Subjects :
- TUMOR diagnosis
PATIENT aftercare
HOSPITALS
COMPUTER software
HOSPITAL emergency services
ACADEMIC medical centers
REPORT writing
MEDICAL care costs
HUMAN services programs
WORKFLOW
DIAGNOSTIC imaging
TREATMENT effectiveness
DOCUMENTATION
COMMUNICATION
NURSES
PATIENT care
MEDICAL appointments
COMPUTED tomography
MEDICAL specialties & specialists
MEDICAL societies
EMAIL
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 08971889
- Volume :
- 36
- Issue :
- 3
- Database :
- Complementary Index
- Journal :
- Journal of Digital Imaging
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 164473100
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1007/s10278-022-00773-x