An assessment of a computerized reporting system (SIREP).
An assessment is presented of the prototype of a computerized radiological reporting system (SIREP). The system is operated by a radiologist who signals to a computer by touching a glass surface on to which is projected the image of one of 165 slides, each containing words and phrases relevant to the radiographs to be reported. The report is shown on a television screen and is typed automatically when completed. The system was installed in the X-ray Department serving the Accident and Emergency Service of the Bristol Royal Infirmary after a study had been made of the reporting sequences and times using conventional methods. This showed that the major factor influencing the time taken to report a film was whether it was "normal" or "abnormal". The assessment of system looked at its effect on reporting and on the department; its technical aspects and reliability; and its acceptability to radiologists. It was found that because there is no storage or analysis of reports the system directly affected only the radiologist and the secretary. For an average of 100 reports daily it is calculated that a secretary would be saved 64 minutes of typing daily, and that a radiologist would take 63 minutes longer over reporting. In general the system was mechanically reliable and fast in operation, with a maximum slide transit time of three seconds. All radiologists using the machine found that the reporting terminal was simple to operate, but found that reporting abnormalities caused an increased effort and took a longer time. None of the radiologists would use the machine in preference to traditional methods, and in this country no cost or time benefit could be established.
D001296:Audiovisual Aids; D003201:Computers; D008499:Medical Records; D011859:Radiography; D013690:Television; D013997:Time Factors