Department of Radiology MRI/MBA Fellow Liisa Bergmann, MD, was recently selected to receive an ACGME Back to Bedside grant. This initiative is intended to directly support residents and fellows as they lead projects that increase patient engagement and shape clinical learning environments in a meaningful manner.
Dr. Bergmann’s work focuses on patient access to radiologists after cardiac imaging exams. Historically, radiology results have been communicated to patients via the referring doctor who ordered the imaging. Less than one year ago, UW Health patients were provided with their full radiology reports online via the electronic medical record, without the counsel of any physician. Radiologists providing “direct-to-patient reporting” goes beyond this to help alleviate patient anxiety from having access to a very technical, scientific report that is written for other physicians. Patients who have undergone cardiac imaging have the option to meet with the radiologist personally, to enhance their comprehension of the information by walking through the report and images of their own anatomy.
Dr. Bergmann is excited to be recognized by the ACGME for her project. “There is a trend toward increased patient interaction across all of radiology,” Dr. Bergmann said. “I hope this project will be an exciting form of health science education for curious patients.”