Imaging-led symptomatic breast clinics: a case for direct access to radiology

Br J Hosp Med (Lond). 2019 Jul 2;80(7):377-379. doi: 10.12968/hmed.2019.80.7.377.

Abstract

Radiologists play a pivotal role in patient management in modern hospital medicine and more so with regard to breast imaging. The diagnosis of breast pathology hinges predominantly on mammography and ultrasound imaging. With reduced clinician confidence in clinical examination alone, virtually all patients with breast symptoms are being referred for imaging. The traditional 'one-stop' clinics are victims of their own success and demand outstrips availability. This article makes a case for imaging-led breast clinics to increase efficiency, reduce duplication of work and cost, and increase throughput of patients.

MeSH terms

  • Ambulatory Care Facilities / organization & administration*
  • Biopsy
  • Breast Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Breast Diseases / pathology
  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Efficiency, Organizational
  • Humans
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Patient-Centered Care / organization & administration
  • Referral and Consultation