A recommendation for follow-up imaging is more likely to be acted on when it names the finding, the interval and what result would change management. Clinicians requesting studies get more from a report when the request states the question being asked, since a vague indication leads to a generic answer.
- In requests, state the clinical question, not only the symptom.
- In reports, give the finding, interval and modality for follow-up.
- Say what result would change management.
- Copy the responsible clinician where a follow-up is time-critical.
Why it matters
Vague requests and vague recommendations are where findings get lost.
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