The CDS helps Kettering Health to obtain more MRI screening while increasing efficiency

Kettering Health Breast Centers was faced with a challenge: his risk assessment process of cancer was ineffective and fragmented.

Staff were based on a separate tablet system where patients or staff have completed risk questionnaires. This configuration set several obstacles: the tablets depended on unstable Wi-Fi, the process took time to explain to patients, and consent was necessary before carrying out evaluations.

The challenge

In addition, the output lacked integration with internal systems, which makes it difficult to generate usable reports or stratify the recommendations of breast imaging based on the evaluated risk.

In the end, the staff did not have a rationalized and consistent process to assess, document or act on data on cancer risks in the health system.

PROPOSAL

The solution proposed to the challenge was to integrate the risk assessment of cancer directly into the health health information system, eliminate the need for external tablets and activate a more efficient and rationalized work flow.

“An interface could also be established with the radiology report system for automatic inclusion for external reports,” said Deanne Rose, director of Kettering Health breast centers. “This integration would allow the documentation and storage of risk data directly in the HIS, improving both accessibility and continuity of care.

“The interface for reports has enabled a rationalized communication of the results for patients and providers,” she continued. “At the time, several risk models and sellers were used throughout the organization, which leads to inconsistencies in assessments – a certain consideration in the risk of mortality, others not.”

The consolidation of a single platform at the system scale offered the possibility of standardizing care, supporting better practice and simplifying supplier workflows, she added.

Take up the challenge

Initially, Kettering used the Hughes tool – later the arc (risk assessment of cancer) – on iPads. Finally, Epic Radiant analysts of the organization worked in close collaboration with the CRA – acquired by Volpara – to fully integrate the system into the Epic DSE.

“This system integration has eliminated the patient’s need for consent and assured that each screening mammography exam includes a risk assessment, with results directly integrated into the mammography ratio,” said Rose.

“Access to the tool was initially granted to technologists, surgeons and OB / GYNS Primary care providers, “she continued.” Risk evaluation issues have been integrated into the technology’s clinical work feedback section in Epic and are examined each year. “”

Clinicians can carry out risk assessments during any meeting. Although the system is not integrated into other external platforms, having a centralized tool within EPIC has considerably improved the capacity of the centers to assess and act effectively on risk data.

RESULTS

The integration of risk assessment in Kettering its redundant manual workflows eliminated, rationalized the collection of patient data and enables automatic inclusion of risk results in reports. This consistency has improved overall operational efficiency and improved communication between providers.

“From year to year, we have found a constant increase in mammary MRI screening rates, especially in high -risk patients,” Rose. “From 2021 to 2024, the volume of screening for breast MRIs for patients identified as having a high risk increased by 47%, 22%, 35%and 19%, respectively, compared to the previous year.

“The ability to stratify patients earlier and more specifically allows us to provide appropriate monitoring, such as genetic council or additional imagery, before cancer detection,” she added.

The use of a risk assessment model in all locations has ensured coherent, Practices based on evidence and eliminated confusion caused by variable tools and methodologies, she continued. This uniform approach helps to ensure that all patients receive equitable preventive care based on guidelines, she said.

Advice for others

“Start by identifying how automation can replace long manual workflows, especially in high volume environments such as imagery,” Rose. “Integration with your existing sound is critical – not only does it rationalize the documentation, but it also supports better communication and decision -making between the care teams.

“You should also determine whether risk assessments will be offered universally or only to specific patient populations, and how the results will be reported and acted by,” she continued. “For patients identified at high risk, have a clear clinical route in place – whether by a dedicated cancer prevention clinic or individual management of providers.”

In the end, success depends on a strong alignment between clinical, technical and operational teams to ensure that technology supports standardized and patient care, she concluded.

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