Doing Everything Possible to Keep CT Scans Safe for Patients
When patients have CT scans anywhere in the BWH Radiology network, they can be sure that everything possible has been done to reduce their exposure to ionizing radiation.
The affiliated radiology network, which includes the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Faulkner Hospital and community radiology sites, has built upon strong existing oversight of imaging exams that use radiation by creating ways to capture, store and share information about patients’ histories of radiation exposures.
“Recent stories in the press have led to heightened scrutiny of the perceived overuse of CT scans and excessive exposure to radiation,” said Radiology Chairman Steven Seltzer, MD. “We want patients and physicians to know that our department is a nationally recognized pioneer in patient safety.”
There is already a strict review process for every imaging study, including CT scans, that uses radiation. Radiologists communicate with referrers to make sure every CT scan performed is medically necessary. In addition, detailed information about radiation exposure can be accessed and shared by referring physicians and radiologists each time a patient has an exam that uses radiation.
The Brigham Radiology network also has an ongoing review process of all imaging protocols to be sure that not only are they the most effective in diagnosis, but that they also use the lowest amount of radiation to achieve the best images for making a diagnosis.
There are also electronic safeguards that spring into action when referrers request a CT scan for a patient. Radiology uses a series of web-based prompts and advanced electronic protections that help guide the referrer in selecting the best imaging test for the patient. This feature is called Decision Support.
“The Decision Support process helps doctors decide whether a diagnostic imaging study is needed, as well as ensure that the proper test is ordered and completed,” said Director of Medical Imaging and Information Technology (MIIT) Ramin Khorasani, MD, MPH.
The MIIT team is working to further strengthen Decision Support by helping educate ordering physicians in real time about the benefits and potential risks of CT and about alternate diagnostic tests if appropriate.
The roll out of the electronic medical record has also created an opportunity for doctors to access detailed information about a patient’s history or radiation exposure. Brigham radiologists are working with the manufacturers of CT scanners and government regulatory agencies to find ways to determine the actual amount of radiation patients receive from each exam and to store this information on the electronic medical record.
“Safety is our number one concern, and we’re focusing many of our research efforts to make sure that radiation exposure is minimized,” said Seltzer. “However, it is also important that we not lose sight of the enormous diagnostic benefits from imaging exams, such as CT, that are realized each day throughout the Radiology Department. We will continue to update you on our progress in this important area.”
Any questions from patients or staff can be directed to the office of Radiology Chairman Steven Seltzer at 617-732-8400.