CLINICAL AUDIT ON CROSS-DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATION: EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF COMMUNICATION AND COORDINATION BETWEEN DIFFERENT DEPARTMENTS, SUCH AS RADIOLOGY, LABORATORY SERVICES, AND VARIOUS MEDICAL SPECIALTIES

Background: Effective communication and collaboration between departments are crucial for optimal patient care. This clinical audit evaluated cross-departmental coordination in a healthcare institution, focusing on radiology, laboratory services, and medical specialties.

Methods: The audit employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing data collection through medical record review, semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals, and analysis of communication metrics and existing protocols.

Results: The audit revealed strengths in the reliance on diverse communication channels but identified weaknesses in outdated software, lack of real-time notifications, and unclear escalation procedures. Information sharing was hindered by inconsistent access rights, report formatting, and missing data elements. Clinical protocols, while clear for routine cases, lacked guidance for unforeseen situations and standardized interdepartmental communication, leading to inconsistencies in adherence and potential errors.

Conclusion: This audit highlights the need for modernization and streamlining of communication channels, standardization of information sharing, and development of robust clinical protocols with guidance for unforeseen events and interdepartmental communication pathways. Implementing these improvements can foster a more efficient, collaborative, and patient-centered care environment.

Keywords: Cross-departmental coordination, communication, information sharing, clinical protocols, patient

care