Radiology wait times

Abstract

As diagnostic imaging becomes a more prevalent tool in medicine, radiologists must increasingly be concerned with resource management. Wait times represent an important quality of care issue in medicine, especially in Canada, where the number of MRI and CT scanners is limited compared to other countries. Longer wait times have been shown to worsen medical outcomes in a number of different settings, including head and neck cancers, as well as costing patients emotional and financial resources. Accordingly, a number of strategies have been undertaken to reduce waiting times. Teleradiology, which is the assignment of diagnostic interpretation of images to distant radiologists, has worked in the context of reduced staff radiologists in PEI. There may also be a role for encouraging only appropriate indications for imaging. In conclusion, the authors suggest that good radiologic practice consists of considering appropriate use of diagnostic imaging to reduce wait times.

A Survey of Treatment Trends for Acute Quadriceps Tendon Ruptures Among North American Surgeons

“…This is likely reflective of the higher cost of MRI as well as its availability in Canada; comparatively, the United States has approximately 4.2 times more MRI scanners per million people, allowing for more rapid access. 34 Thus, while both imaging modalities are highly sensitive, care should be taken to ensure limited false-positive results with ultrasound, possibly with the addition of dynamic ultrasound testing or further assessment using MRI in cases of diagnostic uncertainty. Of course, advanced imaging should not be substituted for a thorough, focused clinical examination of patients with suspected QTR.…”