[Patient-centered vs. employee-centered radiology : Does this pose a conflict?].

BACKGROUND

Patient-centered radiology and employee-centered radiology are being increasingly discussed as an extension of the established structure- and process-oriented management perspective. Concerning potential conflicts, it is unclear if and how these approaches should best be implemented in a radiology department.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this narrative review is to identify and critically correlate underlying characteristics of patient-centered and employee-centered approaches including their similarities, conflicts, and synergies as applicable to the radiological work environment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Based on a literature search using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, the current body of knowledge regarding patient- and employee-centered radiology is presented.

RESULTS

Patient- and employee-centered radiology focus on the individual needs of patients and employees, respectively, and promise to improve patient satisfaction, healthcare outcomes, and organizational performance. Conflicts result from an increased organizational complexity and the concurrent utilization of limited resources, such as time, money, and staff. Overall, however, synergies outweigh the potential conflicts.

CONCLUSIONS

Successful implementation of patient- and employee-centered approaches in radiology requires a human-centered leadership approach and an overarching strategy with the execution of specific interventions in the processes. We provide specific recommendations to this effect.