title: Communication of findings of radiologic examinations: medicolegal considerations.
abstract: Radiologists receive little formal training regarding the structure of the radiology report and its importance as a medicolegal document; failure to communicate, in fact, represents one of the main problems facing the modern radiologists' activity. Duty to the patient does not end anymore with the written report; the paradox is that we are so advanced in imaging technology, but not in communicating imaging findings. Communication must be timely, appropriate, and fully documented. There is an increasing trend to communicate results directly to the patients; radiologists have the greatest problem when communicating unexpected findings. To improve patient care and reduce the risk of being sued, radiologists should follow shared report guidelines and be more familiar with their professional responsibilities.
authors: Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Cardarelli Hospital, Naples, Italy. fpinto1966@libero.it
authors: Fabio
authors: F
authors: Pinto
authors: Giuseppe
authors: G
authors: Capodieci
authors: Francesca Rosa
authors: FR
authors: Setola
authors: Stefano
authors: S
authors: Limone
authors: Francesco
authors: F
authors: Somma
authors: Angela
authors: A
authors: Faggian
authors: Luigia
authors: L
authors: Romano
mesh_terms: D003142:Communication; D003951:Diagnostic Errors / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence* / Q000517:prevention & control; D004282:Documentation / Q000941:ethics*; D055991:Health Records, Personal / Q000941:ethics*; D007558:Italy; D011859:Radiography / Q000941:ethics*; D011871:Radiology / Q000941:ethics* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*