What is the purpose of a radiology report?

The purpose of a radiology report is to provide a summary of findings and impressions from imaging studies. Such reports are crucial for communicating the results of diagnostic imaging—like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans—to the referring physician and other healthcare providers involved in the patient's care. These reports typically include details about the imaging techniques used, observations made during the imaging, and any relevant interpretations regarding the patient's condition. This information enables healthcare teams to make informed decisions about further diagnostic procedures, treatment plans, and patient management.

While tracking patient medical history, prescribing treatment plans, and managing billing information are important aspects of overall healthcare, they are not the primary objective of a radiology report. The report focuses specifically on the imaging results and clinical impressions derived from those results, facilitating a clear understanding of the patient's imaging-related status.