Implementation of an Online Screening and Check-In Process to Optimize Patient Workflow Before Outpatient MRI Studies

Abstract

BACKGROUND/SUMMARY OF THE PROBLEM The long examination times in MRI create the need to reduce access time and implement an efficientmodel to reduce patient turnaround time to a minimum [1]. A commonly encountered cause of delay is the screening process, an essential and indispensable step to ensure patient safety and delivery of high-quality care [2,3]. Traditionally, the MRI screening process is completed with a paper questionnaire, which is then scanned into the electronic medical record (EMR) or uploaded to the PACS for documentation purposes. The MRI screening process is commonly completed after patient arrival for an MRI appointment. If a patient reports a positive pertinent history during MRI screening (eg, placement of a medical device or presence of foreign bodies), further investigation is required, for example, obtaining specific information about the make and model of an implanted device before “clearing” the patient [2-6]. This process has several challenges. First,many patients are unaware of the specifics of their implanted device or may not be aware of the need or may simply forget to bring device-specific documentation to their MRI