Abstract
Background Patient centered radiology represents a crucial aspect for modern sustainable radiology.
The definition of patient-centered consists of a focus on patients’ individual values
and wishes with a respectful integration in medical decisions. In this narrative review
we try to give a practical introduction into this complex topic with the extension
to a person-centered radiology, which additionally encompasses values and wishes of
radiological and other medical colleagues.
Methods Medline search between 2010 and 2021 using “patient-centered radiology” with additional
subjective selection of articles for this narrative review.
Results Regarding patients’ experiences the main literature focus were patients’ fears of
examinations (movement restrictions, uncertainty). Most patients would prefer a direct
communication with the radiologist after the examination. Regarding interdisciplinary
communication the radiological expertise and quality is highly appreciated; however,
there was a general wish for more structured- or itemized reporting. Concerning working
conditions radiologists were satisfied despite high psychosocial working pressure.
Conclusion Most of the literature on this topic consists of surveys evaluating the current state.
Studies on interventions such as improved information before examinations or patient-readable
reports are still scarce. There is a dilemma between an increasing radiological workload
and the simultaneous wish for more patient-centered approaches such as direct radiologist-patient
communications in the daily routine. Still on our way to a more value-based radiology
we have to focus on patient communications and a patient-centered medicine.
Key Points:
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Patient centered radiology has a focus on the integration of patients’ individual
values and wishes in their decisions.
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Radiologists are clinicians, who an additional diagnostic and therapeutic surplus
for patients and referring physicians.
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The recent literature on this topic consists basically on the evaluation of the current
status.
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Most patients prefer a direct communication with the radiologist.
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To gain a “value based” radiology we to focus on an optimized communication with patients
and referring physicians.
Citation Format
Key words
health policy and practice - socioeconomic issues - narrative review - patient centered
radiology
