Improvement in radiological reading efficiency and residents' education and clinical contribution using the modified reading system "Triage Reader".

PURPOSE: To assess whether the modified reading system "Triage Reader" (TR) can improve the radiological reading work environment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective, single-center study analyzed two reading systems for 26,786 computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging examinations. In the conventional system (January 1-May 31, 2016), all reading work was mostly completed within the day. In the TR system (January 1-May 31, 2017), a radiology resident (TR) first read every image immediately after the examination and tagged each examination according to actual image findings and clinical demands. Routine reading work was finished when all high-priority cases were completed. Low-priority cases were assessed the following day.

RESULTS: When using the TR system, the mean reading number in the evening decreased (P = 0.009). The mean elapsed time to finalize report of case with actual urgent image finding shortened from 4.26 to 1.97 h (P < 0.0001). The mean number of cases experienced per resident increased from 5.4 to 28.7 (P < 0.001). Subjective evaluation revealed a significant improvement in "Reading efficiency" and "Contribution to clinical practice."

CONCLUSION: Introduction of the TR system can improve the reading efficiency and quality, educational effect among residents by increasing the number of experienced cases and work satisfaction.