The Department of Radiology has taken measures to increase imaging capacity, specifically related to outpatient imaging. As the Department has expanded and modernized its fleet of imaging equipment, backlogs associated with outpatient imaging have decreased.
“For the first time, we are experiencing unused capacity with outpatient imaging,” said Steven Seltzer, MD, chair of Radiology, who explained that such capacity is a sign that the reallocation of imaging resources over the last few years has made a positive impact on availability to patients. “BWH continues to invest in imaging technology and as a result, we’ve reduced delays in appointment bookings.”
Nearly two years ago, an inpatient CT scanner was installed on Tower 9, making for less travel time for inpatients needing scans, and opening up other scanners to be used exclusively for the outpatient population. In addition to the reallocation of imaging technology and services, the technology itself has improved, reducing test times significantly. The 45 minutes it took to administer a CT scan five years ago, has been reduced to 15 minutes today.
The Department of Radiology can now accommodate referrals for most outpatient radiology appointments, specifically including CT scan, on a walk-in basis. Seltzer explained that there are minimal delays for MRI, Ultrasound and PET Scanning, but referrals for all other imaging can be accommodated without delay.
BWH physicians who have electronic access to BWH’s new outpatient radiology scheduling system, PERCIPIO, should use this web-based system to schedule outpatient radiology examinations. Those without such access, or those with questions should call ext. 2-6248 for outpatient radiology examinations. BICS can still be used to order radiology examinations on inpatients. For general questions or suggestions on further improvements, contact Seltzer via email.