Improving use of planned slots for radiological procedures

Author : Chris Cadman

Abstract :Background: The radiology department at University Hospital Wishaw has limited access to beds and CT scanner time for performing procedures, meaning that planned procedures have to be organised optimally to prevent wastage. Methods: Radiological procedures were audited over a 21-week period to assess for usage of slots and reasons for non-usage. Following initial audit, a proforma was introduced to ensure patients were correctly prepped. A subsequent 21-week audit was then performed. Outcomes: During the initial audit cycle, 101 procedures were planned with 14 cancelled. Reasons for cancellation included patient factors (6, 43%); referrer factors (2, 14%); and radiology factors (6, 43%). A proforma was introduced in an attempt to improve patient preparation and participation. During the re-audit cycle, 103 procedures were planned with 16 cancelled. Cancellations due to patient factors, referrer factors and radiology factors were 8 (50%), 7 (44%) and 1 (6%), respectively. Overall usage of procedural slots remained similar before (86%) and after (84%) intervention. Discussion: Non-usage of procedural slots was relatively high at 14%. Despite attempts to improve usage, non-usage remained similar following intervention at 16%. Radiology factors reduced from 43% to 6% but referrer factors increased from 14% to 44%

Keywords :Optimizing Radiology Procedure Scheduling: A Two-Cycle Audit on Slot Utilization and Cancellations at University Hospital Wishaw Ask ChatGPT

Conference Name :International Conference on Radiology (ICR-25)

Conference Place London, UK

Conference Date 16th Jul 2025