Quantifying the Impact of FAST MRIs and a Dedicated Emergency Department MRI System on Patient Wait Times

Motivation: Determine the impact of a dedicated emergency department MRI system and FAST MRI protocols on workflow. Goal(s): Quantify the time between MRI order and initial image acquisition (order-to-image time) to determine the reduction in patient wait time using FAST MRI protocols during dedicated ED MRI hours (Weekdays 3-11pm). Approach: Order and first image time were extracted from the health record and DICOM headers to determine order-to-image time. Results: Patients that received a FAST exam during the dedicated ED hours were imaged significantly faster. Additionally, all patients that received an MRI during ED hours were imaged significantly quicker than before regardless of protocol type. Impact: Implementation of dedicated MRI hours and FAST protocols for patients from the emergency department decreased the time between MRI order and imaging, facilitating improved patient care.