Page 29 - Diagnostic Radiology - Interpreting the Risks Part Two_Neat

SVMIC Diagnostic Radiology: Interpreting the Risks

record.

• Proofread reports to minimize typographical errors,
deleted words, and confusing or conflicting statements.

Inaccuracies can look sloppy to a jury and communicate

indifference and a lack of care or concern for the patient.
It may be beneficial to highlight or bold directional terms,
such as “left or right” and “anterior or posterior”, in order

to assist with proofreading and provide clarity and focus

for ordering providers. It is important for these terms to be
accurately carried over from the body of the report to the
impression.

• Under no circumstances alter a report or record. It will

appear self-serving and may all but destroy your chances
of prevailing in a medical malpractice lawsuit. If you need

to make a correction in the record, do so with a properly
dated and time-stamped addendum. If contemplating

making such correction after an adverse event, contact a
claims attorney to discuss the best course to take.

• Be aware of the practice parameters developed by the
American College of Radiology for direct communication

of test results, and have a process in place to ensure timely
relay of the following:

» Findings that suggest a need for immediate or urgent
intervention.

» Findings that are discrepant with previous
interpretation of the same exam and where failure to

act may adversely affect patient health.

» Findings that the interpreting physician reasonably
believes may be seriously adverse to the patient’s

health and may not require immediate attention but,

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