Improving Ultrasound Report Turnaround Time by Using RSNA-based Reporting Template

PURPOSE Improving ultrasound report turnaround time poses unique challenges due to complex workflows involving both sonographers, sonologists, and other radiology staff. This is especially true in “stat” or “priority” situations where a radiologist may be responsible for both performing and reporting an ultrasound examination. We report on a method to reduce ultrasound report turn-around-time in such situations to near-real-time by implementing RSNA-based reporting templates in a commercially available speech recognition reporting system in one academic radiology department. METHODS We utilize the FADE (Focus, Analyze, Develop, Execute) process for performance improvement as outlined here. The initial phase required discovery of workflow barriers in improving report turnaround time for priority patients. A priority reporting system was based on in-patient, out-patient, and information from referrals. A team of stake-holders from radiology, information systems, our continuous quality improvements (CQI) committee, and informatics experts was formed to address the identified barriers. When a “Stat” or “priority” ultrasound examination was identified, radiologists performed the ultrasound in a room with both the ultrasound machine and reporting software within the examination room. RSNA-based reporting templates for ultrasound were integrated into the speech recognition software. Time stamps from the RIS, modality, and reporting software were recorded for analysis. Comparison was made with a period prior to implementation of this workflow to determine effect on turn-around-time. Patient and referring physician satisfaction surveys were performed. RESULTS Our resulting implementation provides a faster way to generate near-real-time report for priority patients. Patients have found the priority system extremely useful in getting reports without disrupting routine patients. Although initially radiologists reported feeling burdened by the process of near-real-time reporting, the availability of report-templates made the workflow more acceptable to them. Referring clinicians appreciated receiving timely reports in a comparable format based on RSNA reports templates. Limitations included 1) a lack of availability of full set of ultrasound templates from RSNA, 2) a cultural change for radiologist to produce technology driven near-real-time reports , and 3) Ultrasound room underutilization due to reporting functions being performed in the examination room. In summary, ultrasound report turnaround time showed significant improvement, associated with greater patient and referring clinicians’ satisfaction. CONCLUSION Reporting workflows based on integrated systems, standardized report templates and radiologists participation can improve report turnarounds time with greater patient satisfaction.

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Improving Ultrasound Report Turnaround Time by Using RSNA-based Reporting Template