The impact of extended radiology attending coverage in a children's hospital.

OBJECTIVE

In order to achieve more "timely" interpretation of radiologic examinations, a 3 to 11 p.m. attending radiologist slot was incorporated into the daily schedule utilizing existing staff. Our purpose was to assess the effectiveness of this practice by measuring report generation times.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Using a radiology information system (DecRAD), the time between completion of the technical examination and dictation of the official report for general (plain film) studies was determined for a 2-month period and compared to similar periods 1 and 2 years prior to instituting extended hours. Emergency and portable (ICU) exams were similarly analyzed.

RESULTS

The number of examinations reported within 2 h of technical completion increased by 8.5% (mean); reporting within 4 h increased by 20%; reporting within 6 and 12 h of completion each increased by 24%. Over 80% of cases were dictated within 12 h after the change in practice occurred; whereas, it took up to 24 h in preceding years. Analysis of emergency and portable ICU exams showed similar trends, and the number of next day "call-backs" to the emergency department was significantly reduced.

CONCLUSION

By extending attending coverage, more plain film examinations, especially emergency cases and ICU portables, were read and reported within a shorter time providing prompt communication with clinicians and more opportunity to influence management decisions.