Do you Really Want to Know-Patient and Physician Attitudes of Physicians and English-Proficient Asian Patients toward Direct Release of Radiology Reports in Singapore.

Abstract

In Singapore, there are plans to release radiological reports to patients directly, potentially before their physician clinic visits. While several studies have researched this policy in Caucasian-majority populations, there is scarce data for Asian-majority populations. This study aims to understand the perceptions of releasing radiological reports directly to patients before their clinic visit, by surveying physicians and patients at a major tertiary hospital in Singapore. Voluntary surveys were fielded to English-proficient patients who presented for select cross-sectional imaging, as well as physicians working at the hospital between March and July 2024. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson's χ² test and multivariate linear regression with a two-tailed statistical significance value of 0.05. An institutional review board waiver of consent was received. Analyzing 280 physician and 137 patient responses showed significant differences in agreement across all questions (p < 0.0001). Patients favored, and physicians opposed, the direct release of results. Subgroup analysis revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) between tertiary and pre-tertiary educated patients. Tertiary-educated patients highlighted presumed better understanding of radiological reports (53.6% vs. 25%), less confusion (16.5% vs. 37.5%), felt that the report would better prepare them for the clinic visit (79.4% vs. 47.5%), and increased understanding of their medical condition (79.4% vs. 50%). Wide differences in opinion on direct release of radiological reports, especially as education levels rise, need to be addressed. A "one-size-fits-all" approach does not suit our population, and physicians play a vital role by advocating for patients, helping them navigate complex medical terminology, and the increasingly complex medical landscape.