RAPORT radiology system: results of clinical trials

Abstract

RAPORTTM, an automated radiology management and reporting system is currently operational in more than 25 hospital departments of varying sizes and types. Data have been gathered from 19 installations in operation for 6 months or longer and four systems which failed. Findings were as follows: 1. Mark sense forms were used in 71% of cases (29% dictation) and for an average of 70% of all pathologic material. 2. Report turnaround time ranged from 0.1 to 6 hr (average 2.5 hr) depending on departmental priorties and organization. 3. Rejection of the system was based upon inadequate documentation of needs prior to installation, poor preparation of staff members, and underestimation of the impact on computer systems on existing organizations. 4. System downtime averaged 2.5 hr per month. 5. The ratio of pathologic to normal reports did not vary significantly among university, government, and private hospitals. 6. RAPORT can no longer be considered an experimental system. Properly managed, it is an effective administrative tool which can significantly improve departmental service.