Improve Radiologist Efficiency With Better Lighting

Marcia Frellick | Diagnostic Imaging | December 2, 2013

In trying to improve technology and efficiency, radiologists often neglect to protect their own health and safety.

Increasing numbers of radiologists report eye strain and neck pain and wear wrist and elbow braces.

Designing ergonomic offices for radiology departments not only helps protect staff physically, but increases productivity and reduces stress, said Eliot Siegel, MD, professor at University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Diagnostic Radiology. Siegel is also chief of Imaging Services for the Maryland Veterans Affairs (VA) Healthcare System at the Baltimore VA Medical Center.

“Whether you’re a radiologist or technologist, I think we’re seeing an increase in complexity of things that we’re doing,” Siegel said during a session at RSNA 2013. That complexity heightens the need for comfortable workstations and environmental controls.