BACKGROUND: Patients usually undergo repeated X-ray examinations after their initial X-ray radiographs are rejected due to poor image quality. This subjects the patients to excess radiation exposure and extra cost.It is therefore  investigating the magnitude and causes of reject is mandatory. This study aimed to assess the reject rate of X-ray films and its economic implication in order to obtain information for further recommendations on image quality, cost and radiation exposure.   

METHOD: A cross-sectional study approaches was employed.  Reject rate was measured for two x-rays in the department across all plain x-ray films examinations using a structured format on which relevant data for reject were recorded by investigators. The results were then collected and entered into a database for analysis.

RESULT: Reject rate and cause of reject were measured across all plane x-ray examinations for the hospital. From a total of 6563 exposed films, 16.85% were rejected. This leads to economic waste of 24,721.99 ETB, or 17.8% of a total cost in 4month period and increase in radiation dose to both patients and staff.

CONCLUSION: The findings from this study show that both the overall reject rate and individual reject rate were higher than the accepted range which could be due to machine fault, operator’s technical limitations, or absence of quality control program in the department. We recommend that regular quality assurance and quality control procedure which are well documented should be established in the department.

KEYWORDS: Rejected films, reasons for rejection, reject rate, Cost implication