gms | German Medical Science

Introduction: Studies have found that patient information has a strong effect on search behavior and interpretation of radiographic images. Hobus et al. [2] showed that higher rates in initial generation of diagnostic hypotheses correlate with the ability of experts to better utilize contextual information presented in the form of a patient portrait and clinical history. The question remains open whether the sole presentation of patient portraits can affect the interpretation of radiographic images. Glazer et al. [1] found that radiologists typically have little personal contact with patients. Radiologists' perceived relationship to the patient was therefore also investigated in our study.

Objectives: This study investigates the influence of a patient portrait on a) perceived radiologist-patient relationship, b) gaze behavior, and c) correctness of interpretation of radiographic images across different levels of examiner expertise. The overall goal is to improve learning materials and inform clinical practice.

Methods: In a 2x3 experimental design, participants interpreted six radiographic images in three groups. Group 1 consisted of 20 medical students in their clinical part of studies (beginners). Group 2 consisted of 20 final-year medical students (intermediates). Group 3 consisted of 20 residents in radiology and radiologists (experts). Gaze behavior was recorded with an eye tracker. After the trial, participants filled in a questionnaire about their perceived relationship to the six patients.

Preliminary results: A first analysis of our data suggests a positive influence of the patient portrait on perceived relationship to the patient, gaze behavior, and correctness of interpretation of the images. These indicators were found across all levels of expertise. Longer gaze duration positively correlated with perceived relationship to the patient and correctness of interpretation.

Conclusion: The presentation of patient portraits positively influences interpretation correctness. Increased gaze durations and indicators from the questionnaire suggest this might be due to an increased sense of responsibility of the examiner towards the patient. We plan to present medical students with adapted learning materials in a radiology course to substantiate the found effects in a follow-up study.