Use and Perceptions of Oncology CT Structured Reports in Australia and New Zealand

Abstract

Introduction: Structured oncology template (OT) reports are preferred by physicians. Promoted in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) since 2008, this study investigates the current OT use in ANZ and perceptions around OT reporting.

Methods: An online survey was created and sent to > 350 ANZ radiologists, aiming to gain insight into the current rates of OT reporting, demographic variations, OT types, implementation and perceived advantages and limitations. Statistical analyses were descriptive.

Results: Of 164 respondents, 21% never used an OT; 49% used OTs for > 75% of oncology reports, highest rates were those with 10-20 years of experience (29/61) and reporting > 10 oncology CTs per week (10-20 cases 74% and > 20 cases 72%); 72% used tumour, lymph node and metastases headings; 57% used OTs for all diagnosed cancers; 37% used measurement tables; 70% used subjective terms in their conclusion; and only 4% used synoptic reports. Most selected advantage was 'More clarity and increased communication with clinicians'. Most selected disadvantage was 'lack of experience in template reporting' for those using an OT and 'Inflexible and limits creativity' for those who did not.

Conclusion: OT use is supported across ANZ. Use is higher in those reporting more oncology cases and with 10-20 years of experience. OT reports are perceived as beneficial by those using them, while those who do not perceive them as inflexible.

Keywords: computational intelligence; diagnostic imaging; medical oncology; neoplasm; tomography.