Survey uncovers anxiety around MRI scans
A new survey by US-based Bayer, which seeks to improve the health of humans, animals and plants, has found that many patients felt anxious regarding their experience with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and/or computerised tomography (CT) procedures.
The survey involved more than 1,000 patients across seven countries and the findings from the subpopulation of 162 US patients showed that although the majority felt informed leading up to a procedure and satisfied with the overall experience, half of the patients felt anxious.
In addition, almost one-quarter of the US patients surveyed stated that more face-to-face interaction would be helpful prior to their procedure, and 15 per cent said that they would have liked more electronic support, such as a video on the procedure.
“Medical imaging is critical to detecting and monitoring a variety of diseases, but patients are often nervous when they learn they need an MRI or CT scan, about the procedure itself and the results,” said Dr Jocelyn Rapelyea, Professor and Residency Program Director, Diagnostic Radiology, Associate Director, Breast Imaging and Intervention, The George Washington University. “These findings will help radiology suites better understand their patient's needs, help reduce anxiety and better prepare them for their procedure, which may ultimately increase image quality.”
Bayer has created materials for children and adults on what to expect around an MRI or CT scan. “In a time where information can be accessed anywhere and at any time, it is perhaps not surprising that patients are also wanting more information about their imaging procedure,” said Dr Thomas Balzer, Head of Medical and Clinical Affairs Radiology, Bayer. “These results emphasise the role that education can play in ensuring patients feel both confident and reassured ahead of, during, and after their scan. At Bayer, we have developed support materials for both patients and radiologists with the goal of increasing this knowledge, to the benefit of all involved.”