Physician satisfaction with high-resolution CT services provided by radiologists: Results of a nationwide survey of pulmonary subspecialists

OBJECTIVE. Our objectives were to measure the level of satisfaction of pulmonary medicine specialists who refer patients to radiology facilities for high-resolution CT and to identify determinants of their reported satisfaction. MATERIALS AND METHODS. We surveyed 450 pulmonologist members of the American College of Chest Physicians. The self-administered questionnaire sought information about the radiologists and imaging facilities to which these clinicians referred patients for high-resolution CT of the lungs. The participants rated their satisfaction with the radiology services, estimated the number of patients referred for high-resolution CT per month, answered questions about certain attitudes and utilization practices, and provided general demographic information. RESULTS. Completed surveys were received from 230 pulmonologists practicing in 43 states. Satisfaction with high-resolution CT services was rated as follows: very satisfied (35% of respondents), satisfied (49%), and indifferent or dissatisfied (16%). A higher rating was found in pulmonologists in academic practice, in those who believed that the radiologists desired as much clinical information as possible, and in those who believed that two or more members of the radiology group were interested in high-resolution CT. Among satisfied pulmonologists, confidence in the radiologist's high-resolution CT interpretation was very important. Physician satisfaction was not significantly associated with the size of the radiology group or the number of monthly referrals for high-resolution CT. CONCLUSION. Pulmonologists in the United States appear to be satisfied with the high-resolution CT services provided by the radiologists in their communities. Satisfaction with radiology services might be further increased if radiologists expressed greater interest in high-resolution CT and pertinent clinical information and improved their interpretive skills.