Title

Validation of Macro Button Toolbar System for Radiology Report Composition

Author(s) Information

Brennan L. Chow, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow

College - Author 1

College of Engineering

Department - Author 1

Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Department

Advisor

Jill Speece, College of Engineering, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Department

Funding Source

Paul and Sandi Bonderson

Acknowledgements

Radiology Associates

Date

10-2023

Abstract/Summary

The macro button toolbar system was developed to enhance radiologist report composition and improve group productivity in response to a rise in imaging volume and an impending radiologist workforce shortage. This research aims to validate the proposed benefits of the macro button toolbar system using an analysis of a time study and the radiology group’s historical wRVU productivity data. The study found that radiologists using this system achieved significantly higher productivity compared to national averages, with high toolbar users experiencing a 29% increase in wRVU productivity and a 52.6% reduction in report completion time for X-ray exams. The reduced report completion time for x-ray exams allows radiologists to focus on more complex reports and examinations that do not utilize the macro button toolbar system as fully and therefore increase daily productivity.

October 1, 2023.