Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Breast Subspecialty Program; a Quality Improvement Project Gone Right

Abstract

We describe a Lean based Quality Improvement Project (QIP) to improve the defect rate of breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies by developing a MRI Technologist Breast Sub-specialization Program. Key stakeholders (physician and technologist) drove the QIP. Both the overall defect rate and the callback rate (severe defects requiring patients return for repeat imaging) were measured over a 2-month period as 17% and 6%, respectively. Lean visualization tools of Pareto Chart & Fishbone Diagram identified lack of multiple trends, but discerned that most defect causes were within the responsibility of the technologists. Lean Value Stream Map identified technologists' useless work (muda), which was subsequently eliminated. Radiologists collectively defined what made a quality study in a Quality Checklist. Key stakeholders limited the number of technologists based on the study volume (50 studies/technologist/2 years) and reviewed 5 studies recently performed by each technologist. If all 5 studies were defect free per the Quality Checklist, then the technologist was certified to perform breast MRI's by himself/herself. Otherwise, the technologist was on probation. Key stakeholders selected SuperTechs with advanced skill and interest from the certified pool to cover all shifts. Technologists on probation had to complete 5 additional studies defect-free under the supervision of a SuperTech to achieve certification. In addition, SuperTechs were available to backup certified technologists, as needed. Software was implemented at the PACS workstation to flag defective and callback studies. 6 months after the initiation of the QIP, the defect rate decreased from 17% to 2% (p>0.02), and the callback rate decreased from 6% to 0, thus confirming this MRI Breast Program was a QIP gone right.