Study Reveals Doubling of Imaging Interpretation Turnaround Time from 2014 to 2023

 A recent study conducted by the Harvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute has highlighted a significant increase in the time taken for imaging interpretation in office and hospital outpatient settings over the years 2014 to 2023. Published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology (JACR), the research identified a 113% rise in turnaround time for imaging study interpretations during this period, with a marked upward trend noted in 2022 and 2023.

The study analyzed claims data for 2.6 million outpatient imaging studies, revealing a previously stable average turnaround time from 2014 to 2021, with some minor variations. However, a noteworthy increase was observed in later years, contributing 19% and 68% to the overall rise between 2022 and 2023, respectively. This escalation affected all imaging modalities, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, and radiography/fluoroscopy, with increases of 318%, 256%, 140%, and 63% respectively over the decade.

Eric Christensen, PhD, the study's lead author and Research Director at the Neiman Institute, described the trend as resembling a "hockey stick," with relatively stable times until 2021 followed by steep escalations. Dr. Greg Nicola, a coauthor and senior author of the study, noted that the study confirmed widespread delays in imaging interpretation, previously reported anecdotally, as a nationwide trend.

The research used Medicare fee-for-service claims data to conduct the analysis, emphasizing that data post-2023 were not available. This research was prompted by increasing concerns from radiologists regarding the consequences of delayed diagnostic processes tied to radiologist shortages and capacity issues. Christoph Wald, MD, a study coauthor, expressed surprise at the rate of increase, predicting issues would become more evident post-2023.

The study also explored socioeconomic influences on turnaround time disparities. Michele Johnson, MD, noted that delays were particularly pronounced among Medicare beneficiaries from low-income communities, exacerbating existing inequalities.

Cindy Yuan, MD, pointed to the negative clinical implications of prolonged turnaround times and emphasized the necessity for monitoring these trends to avoid adverse effects on patient care as imaging demand continues to rise. The research has broader implications for health policy and resource allocation aimed at mitigating the impact of such delays on patient outcomes.