Prioritizing magnetic resonance (MR) radiology functions for virtual operations: a feasibility study

Abstract

Background: Virtualization in radiology presents a growing opportunity to improve the efficiency and lower the cost of care delivery. Furthermore, it may provide a means to manage staffing shortages, reduce burnout, and encourage employee development. In radiology, the feasibility to perform several non-patientfacing imaging procedure tasks remotely is explored. Virtualization of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams is of specific interest as it typically involves a range of complex tasks, and inefficiencies can increase patient wait times (WTs) and reduce overall utilization.Methods: To explore this, a computer simulation model is developed to approximate turn-around time (TAT) and patient WT while accounting for technologist expertise and workflow complexity. The model was validated against 1,618 magnetic resonance (MR) inpatient/ED exams. Using cognitive task analysis (CTA), complex MR functions are identified from a technologist perspective that may require a high-level of expertise and thus influence workflow durations.Results: Virtualizing complex, non-patient-facing functions may reduce MR workflow duration by up to 15% and patient in-exam WT by up to 75% when utilizing expert technologists. For example, scans involving the abdomen and spine and addressing unreported implants benefit the most from experts and may be supported remotely.Conclusions: Modifying the workflow of MRI exams by segmenting complex, non-patient facing functions to expert technologists within an organization or in a remote center is feasible as it improves efficiencies and results in a better patient experience. In addition, administration now has guidance on how to effectively deploy a highly-trained workforce in a virtual setting.