Evaluating the Impact of Digital Radiography Implementation in Metropolitan Hospital Radiology Department

Thesis Abstract

The integration of digital radiography (DR) systems within hospital radiology departments presents significant potential for enhancing diagnostic efficiency, image quality, and patient safety, yet little empirical evidence exists regarding its comprehensive impact in large metropolitan healthcare settings. This study aims to systematically evaluate the influence of digital radiography implementation on radiology workflow, image quality, diagnostic accuracy, patient throughput, and staff satisfaction within Metropolitan Hospital’s radiology department. The specific objectives include assessing changes in image quality parameters pre- and post-implementation, analyzing workflow efficiency through throughput metrics, evaluating diagnostic accuracy through clinician feedback, and gauging staff perceptions of the new technology’s usability and impact on work practices. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study integrates quantitative data collected through a retrospective analysis of 1,200 radiographic cases (600 pre- and 600 post-implementation) to assess image quality indices, processing times, and diagnostic concordance. Additionally, a survey instrument comprising Likert-scale items evaluates radiographers’ and radiologists’ perceptions, with a sample of 50 radiographers and 20 radiologists selected via stratified random sampling. Qualitative data are gathered through semi-structured interviews with 10 key stakeholders, analyzed thematically to uncover nuanced perceptions of workflow alterations and perceived benefits or challenges. Data analysis involves descriptive statistics, paired t-tests for pre- and post-implementation comparisons, multiple regression analysis to identify predictors of image quality and workflow efficiency, and thematic content analysis for qualitative insights. The theoretical framework is grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Diffusion of Innovations Theory, providing a lens to examine user acceptance and the factors influencing successful integration of DR technology. Expected findings suggest significant improvements in image quality metrics, with enhanced spatial resolution and reduced processing times, leading to increased patient throughput and shorter examination times. Diagnostic accuracy is anticipated to improve, as evidenced by higher clinician satisfaction scores and fewer nondiagnostic images. Staff surveys are expected to reveal increased satisfaction related to ease of operation, though some resistance may persist due to adaptation challenges. The qualitative analysis is projected to identify institutional and individual factors facilitating or hindering technology adoption, such as training adequacy and perceived workflow disruptions. This research contributes novel empirical evidence to the body of knowledge on digital radiography's impact in high-volume hospital settings, specifically within the East African context, where such evaluations are scarce. The findings will inform best practices for technology integration, staff training, and workflow optimization, ultimately aiding policymakers and healthcare administrators in making evidence-based decisions regarding future radiological innovations. The study concludes that digital radiography systems, when effectively implemented with comprehensive training and change management strategies, substantially enhance diagnostic capabilities, operational efficiency, and user satisfaction in a metropolitan hospital environment. Recommendations include establishing standardized training protocols, implementing continuous quality assurance programs, and fostering user engagement throughout the technological transition. Further research is suggested to explore long-term impacts on patient outcomes, cost-effectiveness analyses, and the scalability of digital radiography across different hospital typologies and resource settings.