Poll: Do You Use Structured Reporting?

It’s hard to argue against improved, easy-to-understand radiology reports. To that end, should groups use structured reporting?

Advocates say structured templates help make reports clearer and more consistent. This improves communication and referrer satisfaction, and perhaps even report turnaround time. Plus, payers are increasingly more likely to deny reimbursement when certain details are overlooked.

Critics warn that if not correctly implemented, structured reporting can distract radiologists and slow down workflow. These systems could also limit a radiologist’s flexibility to customize a report based on the end-user.

Alexander J. Towbin, MD