Process improvement decreases no show rates for pediatric cardiac MR imaging with anesthesia

Background Coordination of pediatric imaging and anesthesia is a complex logistical challenge involving anesthesiologists, nurses, anesthetists, nurse practitioners, PACU nurses, radiologists, technologists and notwithstanding schedulers and receptionists. Parents often can be stressed, due to the child’s NPO status and/or physical condition. Driving to an unfamiliar hospital and transportation difficulties can lead to an appointment no-show. We identified a high noshow rate in the formation of a pediatric cardiac imaging program and instituted process improvement changes to improve attendance in an academic center with a predominately rural population.