Transitioning to Patient-Centered Radiology: Exploring the Feasibility of Patient- Radiologist Video Imaging Review: A Pilot Study.
Academic Article
Overview
abstract
OBJECTIVE: To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of a patient-radiologist video image review. METHODS: In this prospective observational study, radiologist-led patient video visits were piloted from December 2021 - December 2023. Visits were offered to patients in our lung screening program and patients with incidental pulmonary nodules. All visits were conducted using Zoom virtual meeting platform. At each visit, the radiologist reviewed the imaging findings and answered all questions. Our patient navigator scheduled the recommended follow-up by the radiologist and documented the visit in our institution's EMR. Visits concluded with a patient survey. RESULTS: 156 video visits were offered to patients with a median age of 61 years (IQR, 54, 67); 92 women. Sixty-three (40%) of the video visits offered were declined by patients. 73 (78%) visits were completed by 71 patients, 10 (11%) patients did not attend the scheduled visit, and 10 (11%) patients were scheduled outside of our study timeframe (after December 30, 2023). The mean video visit duration was 12 minutes. 127/ 156 patients had follow-up imaging scheduled. Patients who completed a video visit were significantly more likely to return for follow up imaging compared to those who declined video visits (62/66, 94%, vs 49/61, 80%); (p=0.019). Of the 58 patients who completed the post-visit questionnaire, 95% (57/58) reported that the visit made them more likely to return for follow-up imaging. 59% (34/58) reported a decrease in their imaging related anxiety. 98% (57/58) wanted to utilize imaging review for future scans. CONCLUSION: Radiologist-patient virtual image reviews are feasible when performed in conjunction with patient navigators. Virtual visits provide an opportunity to engage patients, address communication gaps, and impact imaging follow up rates.
