Ming-Feng Li MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Jerry Chih-Hong Tsai MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Wei-Juhn Chen, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Tsung-Lung Yang MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Huay-Ben Pan MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

We successfully built a digital platform to improve the radiology workflow and offer better quality of services under limited human resources, which is capable of overcoming jammed exams associated problems, increase patient satisfaction, and decrease staff workload stress, eventually creating a win-win environment for both our patients and radiology staff.

The sonography service volume in our institute had been increasing rapidly over the past 3 years without the corresponding growth in exam personnel, which resulted in the increase of exam waiting time and therefore a low patient satisfaction audit. A digital platform was thus built in order to solve the dilemma. 

The digital platform consists of: 1. Automated patient sorting algorithm A sophisticated and automated algorithm designed to sort and assign patients quickly based on exam priority, exam type, sex, and age. 2. Real-time monitoring system A real-time display of exam rooms on a webpage showing the status of each room, which is available to both patients and staff via the digital broadcasting system. 3. Fine-tuning exam schedule Fine-tuning exam schedules to prevent potential jamming situations with integration into the hospital information system. 4. Tele-imaging support system Broadcasting and recording device were installed onto each sonography machine, allowing console monitor images to be viewed simultaneously by any computer through webpage access. Solving real-time problems encountered by the sonographers became easy through simple consultation phone calls. 5. Digital signage broadcasting of patient education programs An electronic display broadcasting education programs that are customized to each patient's exam type and provide all the need-to-know to the waiting patient.

Several positive effects after implementation of digital the platform were observed with statistical significance 1. Decreased patient exam waiting time 2. Decreased operator stress level 3. Increased patient satisfaction regarding exam waiting time 4. The number of waiting patients at any time  has markedly decreased

Li, M, Tsai, J, Chen, W, Yang, T, Pan, H, Revolutionizing the Ultrasound Workflow in a Heavily-loaded Medical Center through a Genuine Digital Platform.  Radiological Society of North America 2011 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 26 - December 2, 2011 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2011/11003193.html