Speaking Wisely: Analyzing Patients’ Sentiments Towards Different Styles of Radiology Reports

This report explores features of radiology report summaries (besides simply the high level of reading comprehension assumed) that can affect how patients understand and interpret the provided information. Researchers compared different types of radiology report summaries, to determine which styles would be most effective in communicating information about a diagnosis and need for follow-up testing to patients. The report also attempts to identify words and phrases that could be misleading or anxiety-provoking to patients, to guide radiologists away from using these in future reports.