LAUSR

192Background: The department of pulmonary medicine evaluates manifestations of cancer and complications of therapy that affect the lungs. It is a procedurally oriented specialty with many diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Endobronchial ultrasound with transbronchial fine needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is a minimally invasive procedure that allows real time image guided sampling of tissue in the mediastinum. Current guidelines recommend use of EBUS for the initial test to diagnosis and stage lung cancer. It has a low complication rate, but needs specialized equipment as well as anesthesia support. Alternatives include CT-guided biopsy or surgery. The delay from time of referral to EBUS procedure has the potential to delay diagnosis and treatment, create patient anxiety, frustration and expense of travel for multiple appointments. The staff is under pressure to perform excessive cases on a daily basis resulting in overtime staffing costs. Our objectives were to reduce delays in diagnosis/treatment, ...