On Demand: CCTA Operational Efficiencies: The Nurse Navigator Role and Other Practical Approaches to Program Growth-Presentation Slides

Presentation Slides

Pdf Summary

The document outlines a comprehensive overview of a 2024 MedAxiom event focused on advancements in cardiac imaging, specifically highlighting the Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA) and Fractional Flow Reserve CT (FFRCT) programs at Cone Health and Atrium Health. Key topics include the diagnostic performance of CCTA/FFRCT, which exhibits superior results in identifying ischemia and guiding treatment for coronary artery disease (CAD). The event emphasizes the importance of CCTA as per the 2021 ACC/AHA Chest Pain Guideline, which establishes CCTA as the sole Class 1 non-invasive test with Level A evidence for diagnosing CAD.<br /><br />The document details significant clinical trial results, particularly from Douglas et al. (2023), showing CCTA/FFRCT's superiority over traditional testing methods, as evidenced by higher diagnostic accuracy and better patient outcomes. Specific operational data from Cone Health demonstrate the increasing use and efficiency of CCTA/SPECT studies since 2019, highlighting the reduction in false negatives and improvements in revascularization rates.<br /><br />The discussion elaborates on program management strategies, including the role of nurse navigators and the importance of administrative and technical support to streamline processes. This involves optimizing appointment scheduling and enhancing scan protocols to improve patient throughput and satisfaction while minimizing cancellations and no-shows.<br /><br />The document further explores organizational practices, like dedicated scheduling teams and nurse navigator roles, to enhance care delivery and imaging department efficiencies. There is also a discussion around reimbursement and financial impacts, with potential Medicare updates expected to positively affect CCTA utilization.<br /><br />Lastly, HeartFlow’s comprehensive CCTA solution is highlighted, which leverages physiological and anatomical analyses to support clinical decisions and improve patient management outcomes. Overall, the document underscores the integral role of advanced cardiac imaging technologies in elevating diagnostic precision and enhancing patient care pathways.

Keywords

MedAxiom event

cardiac imaging

Coronary CT Angiography

Fractional Flow Reserve CT

Cone Health

Atrium Health

diagnostic performance

coronary artery disease

nurse navigators

HeartFlow