To explore potential solutions to specific issues highlighted in the context of a clinical redesign project. To review methods of streamlining radiology studies utilised in multiple centres as outlined in the literature.

With the introduction of ETP (Emergency Target Performance) guidelines within emergency departments, there is increased pressure on radiology departments to undertake and report scans in the most time-effective manner possible. This literature review was undertaken as part of the Nepean Hospital Clinical Redesign Project, which was undertaken in collaboration with the Agency for Clinical Innovation. The redesign was conducted in keeping with the Centre for Healthcare Redesign Methodology, with the literature review carried out as part of the solution design portion of the project. The...

The barriers to access to radiology services were identified during a series of multidisciplinary meetings involving medical staff from the radiology and emergency departments, administration staff, radiographers and nurses. The obstacles selected for the literature review were categorized into groups according to the core issue: interdepartmental contacts, roles and responsibilities, radiology rostering, referral processes for CT, and standardising protocols. Multiple online databases were utilised in a literature search using keywords from the identified groups of issues. Articles were found outlining specific solutions implemented at other...

While many of the identified solutions utilised at other centres were deemed beyond the scope of this particular project, some options were selected for implementation. The key solutions implemented were in relation to staffing and rostering allocations, streamlining referral processes (especially for non-contrast head and spine CT scans), clearly defining staff roles, establishing new efficient communication channels and improving IT access. These solutions are currently being utilised as part of the Clinical Redesign project, and assessment is ongoing.

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