Innovative automation: the competitive/collaborative human factor.
In summary, a dual-group in-hospital Radiology practice by two competing groups is not only feasible, it is indeed a very viable and practical option, capable of producing numerous benefits to patients, practitioners, staffers and facilities. For the model to succeed, there has to be full cooperation on the part of the hospital administrative staff coupled with their firm mandate to facilitate such a progressive practice. Once the process is clearly and carefully explained to the support staff, with well-defined instructions and ground rules, implementation of the model becomes a matter of following a carefully detailed plan of operation. Our experience with this unique alignment produced challenges for all involved. Our Radiologists were tasked to evolve their practice techniques. As well, all our staff and administration were called to redesign, adapt and utilized at St. Elizabeth's Hospital. In our own way, we see our process of assessment, adaptation and implementation of the dual-group model as a schematic for the wellness of Radiology and perhaps even all of Medicine. Our unified focus to achieve a common goal for the good of all, most particularly our patients, has led us through the fog of fear and trepidation into the clarity of reward. Vision becomes reality through individual effort; and all who come through the doors of St. Elizabeth's, now reap its numerable rewards. And most particularly for our healthcare recipients, the one year experience of two competing groups of radiologists working side by side within the Radiology Department of a single hospital, without an exclusive contract, indicates that the model is successful and has no negative impact on patientcare.