Proven: 37% of complex X-rays in Israel are misread
A study by the University of Haifa, the Technion, and Rambam Hospital found that in complex cases of X-ray diagnosis, the rate of correct diagnoses drops to 37%, while doctors' confidence remains high (about 80%). In simple cases, accuracy reaches 98%. Radiologists outperform other physicians (74% vs. 65%). The researchers recommend simplifying access to second opinions and training doctors to recognize when to stop and ask for help.
A study conducted by the University of Haifa, the Technion, and Rambam Hospital found that in complex cases of X-ray diagnosis, the rate of correct diagnoses drops to 37%, even though doctors maintain high confidence in their conclusions (about 80%). In simple cases, accuracy reaches 98%, and confidence is about 93%. The study involved 28 radiologists and 50 medical professionals from other fields (orthopedists, pediatricians). They interpreted bone X-rays, with a total of 2,806 diagnoses reviewed. Diagnoses were confirmed using CT or MRI and the conclusions of two expert radiologists. Radiologists showed better results (74% correct diagnoses) compared to other participants (65%). The study revealed that in complex cases, doctors do not fully recognize the increased risk of error. The researchers recommend simplifying access to second opinions and training doctors to recognize when to stop and ask for help. The study was published in the journal Radiology.