Using Discrete Event Simulation to Design and Assess an AI-aided Workflow for Same-day Diagnostic Testing of Women Undergoing Breast Screening

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38827101/ Using an artificial intelligence–aided interpretation tool for same-day review after an abnormal screening mammogram to reduce patient anxiety increased patient wait times and created higher patient volume in diagnostic centers, according to an AHRQ-funded study published in AMIA Joint Summits of Translational Science. To determine potential consequences of introducing this workflow in a high-volume breast imaging center, the authors conducted a simulation using three days of scheduling data, one year of productivity data and time-motion data obtained during clinic shadowing. They recommended potential ways to mitigate these changes, including extending the operating hours of the imaging center or purchasing new imaging equipment, alongside hiring new technologists.