AN AUDIT OF CLINICORADIOLOGIC CONFERENCES

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES. To assess the various functions of regular r eview conferences between clinicians and radiologists, proceedings at 19 such meetings were audited. In particular, the authors attempted to quantify their educational component. METHODS. The cases discussed du ring each meeting were monitored, and the educational component was as sessed. Changes in imaging strategy, diagnosis, and management were no ted. The participants were questioned regarding their perceptions of s uch meetings. RESULTS. Two hundred cases were presented at 19 meetings (mean duration 44.8 minutes). Overall, 75 of the 200 cases (37.5%) we re presented for routine purposes, 100 (50%) for radiologic assistance , and 25 (12.5%) for general interest. More changes in diagnosis and m anagement and a greater educational contribution occurred in those cas es presented for radiologic assistance than in those presented out of routine. Most participants considered that these meetings bestowed con siderable benefit to their continuing medical education and to the man agement of their patients. Discussion considered of educational value developed in 88 of the 200 patients presented; this discussion require d 61.7% of the total duration of these meetings. CONCLUSIONS. These co nferences provide benefit to the patient, as well as serving an educat ional role for the medical community. Discussion of imaging strategies and the presentation of controversial and interesting cases should be particularly encouraged.