Reflections on training and management of junior radiologists through analysis of correction rates in emergency radiology reports.

PURPOSE: Numerous studies have examined factors affecting junior radiologists' interpretation accuracy, mostly focusing on Western countries. This study investigates the accuracy of radiology reports during emergency shifts in a Chinese hospital, considering shift times, examination types, radiologist experience, and patient factors.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

From January 2023 to March 2024, we randomly selected emergency shifts and analyzed radiology reports initially interpreted by junior radiologists and reviewed by senior radiologists. This study compared the corrected rates between day (8 AM to 3:59 PM) and night shifts (8 PM to 7:59 AM), as well as between the first and second halves of each shift. Additionally, we examined the relationships between examination type and quantity, radiologist experience, patient age, and correction rates.

RESULTS

In 19 day shifts and 18 night shifts, 14 junior radiologists initially interpreted 8,338 reports. The corrected rate for daytime emergency reports (25.09%) was higher than for nighttime reports (21.91%, p = 0.236). Corrected rate in the second half of shifts was lower than in the first half, regardless of day (28.89% vs. 22.15%, p < 0.001) or night (22.89% vs. 19.05%, p = 0.008). Radiologist experience is significantly associated with corrected rates (p < 0.001), with elderly patients (29.85%) showing a higher rate of corrections compared to children (22.03%) and middle-aged patients (18.85%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Correction rates of radiology reports vary under different training, different working hours, and different working models. Customizing management practices and training programs based on research findings is essential to improve accuracy and develop specific guidelines.