Measuring and improving productivity in general radiology.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to determine a method of measuring productivity among general radiographers in a moderate-sized hospital and to improve and sustain productivity within that work area.


METHODS
The average times needed to perform the 13 most common examinations were measured. Performance of the various examinations was tracked and multiplied by the time allocated per procedure; this measure was divided by the length of the work shift to determine productivity. Productivity measures were shared among the work group, and decisions to improve productivity (eg, whether to fill open positions) were made by group members.


RESULTS
Average time spent per examination type was calculated (range, 10 minutes to 1 hour 16 minutes). At baseline (February 2008), group productivity was 50%. Productivity increased during the first year of monitoring and was sustained through November 2009 (productivity range, 57%-63%). Yearly savings from not filling open positions were estimated to be $174,000.


CONCLUSIONS
Productivity in a general radiology work area can be measured. Consensus among the work group helped increase productivity and assess progress. This methodology, if widely adopted, could be standardized and used to compare productivity across departments and institutions.
Wilt
Michelle A
MA
Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA.
Miranda
Rafael
R
Johnson
C Daniel
CD
Love
Peggy Sue
PS
D004526:Efficiency; D006801:Humans; D010564:Personnel, Hospital / Q000191:economics; D010808:Physical Examination; D011871:Radiology / Q000191:economics* / Q000592:standards; D011872:Radiology Department, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards; D013997:Time Factors