LAUSR

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES To compare preferences in reporting styles between radiologists and clinicians in structured vs unstructured reporting styles in order to facilitate better communication. METHODS An online survey was distributed to 5280 clinicians, radiologists, and physicians in training surveying respondent preference for three different reporting styles: expanded structured, minimized structured, and unstructured. RESULTS A 7.5% response rate was achieved. Overall, the expanded structured reporting style was the most preferred (47%, 186/394). This contrasted with radiologists who preferred the unstructured reporting style (41%), whereas nonradiologists preferred the expanded structured reporting style (51%; P < 0.001). There was significance in emergency medicine physicians preferring the minimized structured reporting style (51%, 27/43), whereas all other specialties preferred the expanded structured report (49%, 168/341; P = 0.0038). DISCUSSION There is a discrepant reporting style preference between clinicians and radiologists. A structured reporting style with expanded standard statements is preferred by most physicians. Radiologists could consider using a structured reporting style with minimized normal statements in the emergency room setting.