Radiology in Primary Care: Optimising Imaging Requests and Interpretation
Educational Activities (EA)
60.0
Reviewing Performance (RP)
Measuring Outcomes (MO)
Brief Overview
This concise 1-hour workshop, presented by local radiology specialists, aims to enhance General Practitioners' knowledge and skills in appropriately requesting common radiological investigations and effectively interpreting basic radiology reports within the primary care setting. The session will focus on evidence-based guidelines, practical tips for image selection, and understanding key findings in radiology reports to improve patient management.
Program Details
Participants will expand their knowledge of appropriate radiology use in primary care, develop practical skills in image selection and basic report interpretation, and foster a more confident and effective approach to integrating radiology into their diagnostic and management pathways.
Program Outcome
General Practitioners frequently utilise radiology to aid in diagnosis and management. This activity addresses the need for GPs to enhance their skills in ordering the most appropriate imaging and interpreting reports effectively to optimise patient care and avoid unnecessary radiation exposure and costs. This aligns with RACGP criteria 1.1 and 1.2, as local radiology specialists are involved in delivering the education based on their understanding of common primary care imaging needs and referencing evidence-based guidelines for appropriate imaging [e.g., Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR) guidelines]. Furthermore, it touches on RACGP criterion 1.3 by promoting cost-effective and safe imaging practices. This also relates to the 'Applied professional knowledge and skills' domain of the 2022 RACGP curriculum.
Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:
- Apply the basic principles of appropriate imaging requests (ALARA) in their primary care practice. (Clear, Measurable through case scenarios, Relevant, Feasible)
- Identify the most suitable initial imaging modality for common musculoskeletal, chest, and abdominal presentations in primary care. (Clear, Measurable through case scenarios, Relevant, Feasible)
- Understand the meaning of key radiological terms commonly found in imaging reports relevant to primary care. (Clear, Measurable through knowledge check, Relevant, Feasible)
- Recognise "red flag" findings on common radiological investigations that necessitate urgent referral or action. (Clear, Measurable through case scenarios, Relevant, Feasible)
- Explain basic imaging results to patients in a clear and understandable manner, considering their health literacy. (Clear, Measurable through role-playing elements or scenario discussions, Relevant, Feasible, aligns with Domain 1 communication)
The session will be delivered by local radiologists, incorporating a lecture format with illustrative examples of common primary care imaging and their corresponding reports. Brief case-based discussions will allow participants to apply the principles of appropriate imaging selection and report interpretation. Ample time will be allocated for interactive question and answer sessions with the radiology specialists.
A brief post-activity questionnaire will assess participants' self-reported confidence in ordering and interpreting common radiology in primary care. Feedback will be collected on the clarity of the radiologists' presentation, the relevance of the discussed imaging modalities and reports, and any areas where further information or practical tips would be beneficial. This feedback will be used to tailor future radiology-focused CPD sessions for primary care.
Core Medical Practice Values
By promoting appropriate and evidence-based imaging practices, the program supports GPs in upholding their professional responsibility for patient safety and resource stewardship.
Topics Covered
Addiction Medicine
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Delivery Method & Format
0 Hours total Duration
In Person
Knowledge Sharing: Conference, Lecture (emphasises presenting information and fostering discussion)
CPD Home (Accreditor)
Suited for
Practitioners
AUS
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