An incidental finding is an unanticipated finding on a patient’s image that requires additional follow up. MIR’s Incidental Findings Program aims to close the loop between the time our radiologists identify and report incidental findings on imaging scans to when next-step actions are taken. That could mean scheduling another scan, visiting a primary care physician or seeing an appropriate subspecialist.

If an incidental finding is identified, MIR will call the referring physician, notify them of the findings and recommended next steps. Other programs send notifications by text or email, but busy physicians may receive hundreds of these communications a day. A personal phone call ensures there is direct, one-to-one communication with someone who can take responsibility for further action on behalf of the patient.