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Patient Agency in Imaging: Radiologists’ Insights
  • +2
  • Lizzie De Silva,
  • Melissa Baysari,
  • Melanie Keep,
  • Peter Kench,
  • Jillian Clarke
Lizzie De Silva
The University of Sydney Discipline of Medical Imaging Science

Corresponding Author:lide7124@uni.sydney.edu.au

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Melissa Baysari
The University of Sydney Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery
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Melanie Keep
The University of Sydney School of Health Sciences
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Peter Kench
The University of Sydney Discipline of Medical Imaging Science
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Jillian Clarke
The University of Sydney Discipline of Medical Imaging Science
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Abstract

Objectives: There is a notable rise in patient-initiated imaging requests, with one possible reason being the increased availability of online health information. This study specifically examines the impact of patient-initiated radiological exams on radiologists. Exploring their perspectives on how GPs acquiescing to patients’ medical imaging requests impacts healthcare resources and skew patients’ expectations of the capabilities of radiological studies. The findings of this study are crucial for understanding the evolving dynamics of radiology practice and its challenges. Method: A comprehensive cross-sectional survey was administered to radiologists in private medical centres across Australia between November 2023 and February 2024. The survey included structured and open-ended questions distributed via an intranet platform within the same company and reached a wide range of radiologists. Results: Nearly half of the participants (48%) had over 20 years of experience. The majority of radiologists reported X-rays (27%), ultrasounds (25%), and CT scans (24%) as the most commonly requested non-indicated imaging studies. Radiologists attributed these requests to patients’ exposure to online medical information and their desire for reassurance. Approximately 24% of radiological studies were considered unnecessary, with 30% of radiologists reporting feeling pressured by GPs and patients to expedite report completion. Proposed strategies included patient education, communication, and the establishment of clear guidelines. Conclusions: The study underscores the increasing burden of patient-initiated imaging on radiologists. This burden is further compounded by patients’ unrealistic expectations and lack of understanding of diagnostic imaging’s limitations. Radiologists have stressed the crucial role of the broader healthcare context in collaborating with such requests. Patient education was emphasised to reduce unnecessary imaging and manage patient expectations.