Mitigation Tactics Discovered During COVID-19 with Long-Term Report Turnaround Time and Burnout Reduction Benefits

Abstract

Rationales and ObjectivesThe purpose is to describe a hybrid teleradiology solution utilized in an academic medical center and its outcomes on radiology report turnaround time (RTAT) and physician wellness.Materials and MethodsDuring coronavirus disease 2019, we utilized an alternating teleradiology solution with procedural and education attendings working in the hospital and other faculty remote to keep the worklist clean. RTAT data was collected for remote vs. in house emergency department (ED) and inpatient cases over a 6-month period. Pre and post implementation burnout surveys were administered.ResultsRTAT significantly improved for ED and inpatient MR and CT, and inpatient US and radiographs when interpreted remotely compared to in-hospital. Physician wellness scores improved and open-ended comments reflected positive feedback about the hybrid work solution. 74% enjoyed the autonomy and flexibility, and 51% said the solution positively influences my desire to remain in my current institution and improves their clinical and/or academic productivity.ConclusionHybrid work from home solutions allow faculty autonomy and flexibility with work-life balance, improving wellness. It is important to alternate the at-home faculty to maintain interdepartmental relations, particularly for junior faculty, and prevent isolation. The hybrid solution also demonstrated improved patient care metrics, possibly due to decreased distractions at home compared to the reading room.