Patients Prefer Results From the Ordering Provider and Access to Their Radiology Reports

Abstract

Purpose: Imaging results are generally communicated to patients by referring providers. Directly communicating results has been suggested as a way for radiologists to add value, though few studies have investigated patients' preferences in this regard. The aim of this study was to determine patients' preferences for receiving their imaging results. Methods:In this institutional review board-approved study, adult outpatients undergoing CT or MRI at an academic medical center and an affiliated county hospital over a 4-week period (n ¼ 2,483) were surveyed. The survey assessed patients' preferred delivery method for radiology results and their understanding of radiologists' education and role.Results: A total of 617 surveys (25% response rate) were completed, 475 (77%) and 142 (23%) by academic medical center and county hospital patients, respectively. Among all respondents, the majority of patients (387 of 617 [63%]) preferred models of results delivery centered on the referring physician as opposed to the radiologist. Regardless of who verbally relayed the results, 64% of all respondents (398 of 617) wanted the option to receive a copy of the report, and 522 of 614 (85%) wanted to see their images. Among patients wanting copies of their reports, academic medical center patients expressed equal interest in mail, e-mail, and online portal options (33%, 31%, and 36%, respectively), and county hospital patients preferred mail (55%, 28%, and 17%, respectively) (P < .001).Conclusions: Patients prefer receiving their imaging results through their referring providers. Many patients would also like to view their images and receive copies of their reports, potential avenues through which radiologists could add value.

Are on‐line patient portals meeting test result preferences of caregivers of children with cancer? A qualitative exploration

“…10,11,13,[31][32][33] The majority of our participants wanted to learn results "as soon as possible" and wanted a written record much like adult patients. [6][7][8][9]34 Portals may meet those stated needs and caregivers recognized this.…”

“…Many adult patients want immediate access to test results . Portals are one way to move toward this.…”

“…2 Many adult patients want immediate access to test results. [6][7][8][9] Portals are one way to move toward this. However, physicians express concerns regarding potential for misunderstanding medical terminology, increased anxiety, and increased phone calls due to unfettered EHR access.…”

Preferences of referring physicians regarding the role of radiologists as direct communicators of test results

“…Previous studies have shown that patients prefer to receive their test results from RPs rather than radiologists (2,(20)(21)(22)(23). However, the results of these studies should be interpreted cautiously because they do not involve a standardized method of conduct that includes factors such as the patients' educational and sociocultural background; anticipated delivery time of the test results; and the type of patient-radiologist encounter (i.e., interactive vs. noninteractive).…”

Radiology Consultation in the Era of Precision Oncology: A Review of Consultation Models and Services in the Tertiary Setting

“…Patients also preferred detailed radiology reports, with some requesting access to key images. In a similar study of patients undergoing CT or MRI at an academic medical center (77%) or a county hospital (23%), among 617 surveys, 63% revealed preference for receiving results from their ordering providers; 64% desired access to their imaging report, and 85% wished to see their images (22). …”