Background:
Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust (BHRUT) recognised that demand for radiology services was growing, but throughput was constrained by inefficiencies in reporting and slot utilisation. Lengthening waiting times in CT and MRI impacted both diagnostic timelines and patient outcomes. The Trust partnered with Meridian to gain control over operational performance and increase capacity without new investment.
Analysis:
Meridian conducted a detailed diagnostic to understand how reporting performance and booking practices affected radiology throughput. The analysis uncovered variation in how reporting time was allocated, inconsistency in use of templates, and limited visibility into actual versus expected slot utilisation. There was a lack of standardisation in turnaround expectations, making it difficult for managers to drive performance.
Implementation:
A new performance monitoring system was introduced, creating transparency around booked slots, completed scans, and radiologist reporting times. Standardised targets for turnaround time were agreed and embedded, with ongoing reporting delivered through dashboards and weekly performance reviews. Workshops and direct engagement with radiology teams ensured the solution was embraced and sustainable beyond the life of the project.
Results:
The Trust achieved a 24% increase in radiology throughput, reducing waiting times for both CT and MRI services. Financially, the initiative delivered £950K in initial savings and a projected £1.5M in annual benefits. The improved visibility also allowed operational leads to proactively manage pressure points and align resources more effectively, without requiring additional capital investment.
