Formal training in radiology focuses on the identification and characterization of abnormality. Such skills are necessarily, but not sufficient to thrive in modern practice. One of the greatest predictors of professional satisfaction and overall productivity for radiologists is work efficiency - a skill not often formally taught.
This book provides a comprehensive review of techniques that a radiologist may use to improve work speed, without compromising quality. Small differences across many domains (e.g., image analysis, reporting, and communication) add up to large differences in work efficiency.
Topics covered in this text include (though are not limited to):
- Why Developing Efficiency is a Training Priority
- Overarching Principles in Improving Efficiency
- PACS Interface Optimization
- Overview of Effective Reporting
- Efficient Dictation Tips
- Macro Optimization
- Macro Special Functions and Organization
- Educational Preparation (For Residents and Fellows)
- Workflow Organization (For Attendings and Practices)
- Physiological and Cognitive Optimization
- Environmental Optimization
- Hardware Optimization
- AutoHotKey and Macro Scripting
- Automation, Informatics, and Other Efficiencies
- The Future of Radiologic Efficiency
Even if a hundred of hours of education early in one's career were required to develop a 1% improvement in speed, our estimates suggest that this would produce a greater than 500% return on investment in reclaimed hours and compensation over time. Most trainees and radiologists are likely to achieve far greater (10-100%) improvements in speed with dedicated efforts.
Not all variation in efficiency is easily modified. However, the strategies we discuss can help radiologists hone their abilities to the greatest extent possible. This book can be a useful guide on your journey in becoming the best - most accurate, thoughtful, and efficient - radiologist you can be.
