Herding CATS: ED CT Utilization Pilot Study: Provider Factors

There is a growing world-wide literature concerning the increased use of computerized tomography (CT) scan examinations in the emergency department setting. The reasons for the increased rates seen have been predominantly attributed to the role of CT in providing rapid and accurate diagnostic imaging. [Oh] As Chang et al point out, “CT is a useful diagnostic tool for the differential of many acute conditions, rendering it an ideal and integral diagnostic tool in the ED setting.” [Chang] Other driving forces to CT utilization have been discussed in the literature. “Factors cited for this trend include a need for rapid, accurate diagnosis, a general trend towards less invasive testing, and increasing concern about malpractice litigation and an increasing public awareness of, and often desire for, CT scanning capabilities.” [Lee] On the other hand, “CT becomes a source of concern to the medical community from the perspective of increased cost and radiation dose to the patient population.” [Oh] This has led to studies of CT utilization. Research has included a number of provider related factors, including provider experience and gender. The purpose of this study was to look at the relationship of overall CT utilization, defined as the number of studies per 100 patients, by provider experience, gender and directorship experience.

KEYWORDS

CT Utilization Rates in Emergency Medicine; Emergency Department CT Utilization Rates; Provider Experience and CT Utilization in Emergency Medicine.