Association of volume of self-directed versus assigned interpretive work with diagnostic performance of radiologists: an observational study

What is it about?

What is it about?
Despite advances in technology and various strategies, the rate of diagnostic errors in radiology has changed little over the past 50 years. In this study, we tried to understand the sources of variability in diagnostic performance among experienced radiologists by reviewing prostate MRIs performed during the past three years at our institution. To our surprise, we found that greater autonomy for diagnostic work, represented as enhanced self-directed or voluntary interpretation of abdominal CTs, rather than assigned volume of prostate MRIs, per se, most contributed to improved performance of prostate MRI interpretation.

Why is it important?
Firstly, the lack of linear correlation between the diagnostic performance and the assigned volume of prostate MRIs, per se, confirms the complex nature of human learning and human error. Secondary, the study provides unprecedented data supporting the hypothesis that successful promotion of internal drivers of physicians could have a pervasive positive impact on improving their performance in clinical practice.

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