Category: Blog updates

What’s New in Breast Density and Mammography: Fall 2025 Update

Why breast density remains a frontline issue

Breast density continues to be one of the most important—and complex—factors in breast cancer screening. Dense breast tissue not only raises cancer risk but also makes abnormalities harder to detect on mammograms. For hospitals and imaging centers, keeping up with evolving regulations, trial data, and technology is no longer optional. It’s central to compliance, patient communication, and imaging strategy.

FDA updates the national reporting standard

In July 2025, the FDA approved changes to the breast density reporting standard under the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA). This builds on the September 2024 rule requiring that all mammography reports inform patients whether their breasts are “dense” or “not dense.”

Hospitals should review their reporting templates now. The updated language affects how results must be communicated to both patients and referring clinicians. Staying compliant avoids liability and ensures consistent, patient-friendly communication across facilities.

Doctors reviewing breast density mammogram results for Fall 2025 hospital updates.New trial evidence favors MRI and contrast-enhanced mammography

The interim results of the BRAID trial in the U.K. made headlines this summer. Among women with dense breasts and negative mammograms, supplemental abbreviated MRI and contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) identified significantly more invasive cancers than ultrasound.

  • MRI and CEM: ~15–19 extra cancers detected per 1,000 women screened
  • Ultrasound: ~4 extra cancers detected per 1,000

These findings were reported in the OBG Project’s summary of the BRAID interim results.

While recalls and contrast risks remain a concern, the data strengthen the case for offering advanced supplemental imaging in high-density populations. Hospitals may want to begin planning how to integrate MRI or CEM into workflow, or establish referral pathways for patients with very dense breasts.

MBI joins the conversation

Molecular breast imaging (MBI), when paired with digital breast tomosynthesis, is showing early promise in improving invasive cancer detection in women with dense breasts. Findings from the Density MATTERS trial highlight MBI as a potential alternative for hospitals with limited MRI or CEM capacity.

AI-enabled density assessment and multimodal risk stratification

Artificial intelligence tools are advancing rapidly in breast imaging. A recent clinical study demonstrated that multimodal AI systems can reduce recall rates by over 30% while maintaining sensitivity. Other work shows promise in improving density quantification and developing 5-year breast cancer risk models from imaging features.

Hospitals considering AI adoption should focus on how these tools can streamline workflow, support compliance, and reduce unnecessary patient callbacks.

Shifting clinical culture: from notification to action

At the 2025 Society of Breast Imaging annual meeting, a clear theme emerged: simply notifying patients about dense breast status is not enough. The expectation is shifting toward offering supplemental imaging or providing clear, individualized next steps.

Hospitals that rely on tomosynthesis alone may increasingly be asked to justify why they do not offer MRI, CEM, or other supplemental options.

Key takeaways for hospitals and imaging centers

  • Compliance check: Ensure your reporting language matches the updated FDA standard.
  • Workflow planning: Prepare for increased demand for supplemental imaging in dense-breast populations.
  • Technology assessment: Evaluate the role of MRI, CEM, MBI, and AI tools in your facility.
  • Patient communication: Move beyond dense-breast notification toward structured shared decision-making.
  • Equity focus: Consider insurance coverage and access barriers that could affect your patient population.

Hospitals that adapt now will not only stay compliant but also lead in patient-centered breast cancer screening strategies.

 

 

FDA’s 2025 AI Draft Guidance: A Buyer’s Checklist for Imaging Leaders

In January 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration released a draft guidance for AI-enabled medical devices that lays out expectations across the total product life cycle—design, validation, bias mitigation, transparency, documentation, and post-market performance monitoring. For imaging leaders, it’s a clear signal to tighten procurement criteria and operational guardrails before piloting AI in CT, MRI, mammo, ultrasound, or PET.

As teams lock in Q4 budgets and head into RSNA season, the FDA’s AI lifecycle draft (Jan 2025) and the now-final PCCP (Dec 2024) have reset what buyers should expect from AI in imaging—devices, software, and workflows. Vendors are updating claims and governance; this issue distills a practical buyer’s checklist—multisite validation with subgroup results, drift monitoring and version control, clear in-viewer transparency—and how pairing those tools with Vesta’s subspecialty coverage and QA turns promise into measurable gains across CT/MRI/US/mammography.

A practical buyer’s checklist

Use this when evaluating AI for your service lines:

  1. Intended use fit: Verify indications, inputs/outputs, and claims match your pathway and patient mix.
  2. Validation depth: Prefer multisite, diverse datasets; stratified results; pre-specified endpoints; documented data lineage and splits.
  3. Bias mitigation: Demand subgroup performance (sex, age, race/ethnicity when available), scanner/vendor variability analyses, and site-transfer testing.
  4. TPLC plan: Require drift monitoring, retraining triggers, versioning, and how updates are communicated.
  5. Human factors & transparency: Ensure limitations, failure modes, and interpretable outputs are presented in-viewer without slowing reads.
  6. Security & support: Patch cadence, vulnerability disclosure, SOC2/ISO posture, uptime SLAs, and rollback paths for version issues.
  7. Governance: Define metrics owners, review cadence, and thresholds to pause or roll back a model.

Implementation playbook: pilot → scale without disruption

Start with a 60–90 day pilot in one high-impact line (e.g., ED stroke CT or mammography triage) and lock in baselines: median TAT, positive/negative agreement, recall rate, PPV/NPV, and discrepancy rate. Set guardrails—when to auto-triage vs. force human review—and document escalation paths for model failures. Require case-level confidence and structured outputs your radiologists can verify quickly. Stand up a model governance huddle (modality lead, QA, IT security, and your teleradiology partner) that meets biweekly to review drift signals, subgroup performance, and near-misses. Bake in a rollback plan (version pinning) and a quiet-hours change window so updates don’t collide with peak volumes. As results stabilize, scale by cohort (e.g., expand to non-contrast head CT, then CTA) and keep training “micro-bursts” for techs/readers—short videos or checklists in-workflow. Tie vendor SLAs to uptime, support response, and clinical KPIs so the AI program stays accountable to operational value.

Where teleradiology fits

AI only delivers when it’s welded to coverage, quality, and speed. A teleradiology partner should provide:

  • 24/7 subspecialty + surge capacity: Vesta absorbs volume peaks so AI never becomes a bottleneck.
  • QA you can see: We benchmark pre/post-AI performance, add targeted second looks for edge cases, and feed variance data back to your team.
  • Standardized outputs: Structured reports that integrate model outputs with radiologist findings—no black-box surprises.
  • Smooth rollout: Pilot by service line (stroke CT, mammo triage, PE workups), then scale with tracked KPIs (TAT, PPV, recalls).
  • Interoperability & security: Seamless PACS/RIS/EMR integration with strict access controls, audit trails, and support for change-controlled updates.

Bottom line: Pairing AI with Vesta Teleradiology gives you round-the-clock subspecialty reads, measurable QA, and operational breathing room while you pilot and scale responsibly. If you’re mapping your AI roadmap under the FDA’s 2025 draft guidance, we’ll be your coverage and quality backbone—so your clinicians see faster answers and your patients see safer care. Visit vestarad.com to get started.

 

 

Photon-Counting CT: What Healthcare Facilities Need to Know Now

Photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) is one of the most exciting breakthroughs in diagnostic imaging technology in recent years. Offering greater spatial resolution, reduced radiation dose, and improved tissue characterization, PCCT is quickly gaining attention from radiologists, imaging directors, and healthcare systems looking to stay ahead.

As the healthcare landscape evolves, staying informed about how new imaging technologies integrate with workflows and diagnostic goals is critical. Here’s what facilities need to know now about photon-counting CT—and how teleradiology can help maximize its impact.

What Is Photon-Counting CT?

Unlike conventional CT, which measures the total X-ray energy reaching the detector, photon-counting CT counts individual photons and measures their energy levels. This allows for:

  • Sharper images with better spatial resolution
  • Lower noise, especially in soft tissue
  • Multi-energy imaging from a single scan
  • Reduced radiation exposure

Siemens Healthineers introduced the first FDA-approved photon-counting CT system (NAEOTOM Alpha) in 2021, and adoption has slowly grown among academic and high-volume centers.

Clinical Benefits of PCCT

Photon-counting CT provides enhanced detail for a range of applications, including:

  • Cardiac imaging: Better visualization of stents and plaques
  • Pulmonary imaging: Improved nodule detection and perfusion data
  • Neuroimaging: Greater contrast at lower doses for brain scans
  • MSK imaging: Superior resolution for joint, bone, and soft tissue analysis

The ability to perform multi-energy imaging without dual-source CT equipment allows radiologists to generate virtual non-contrast images, improve lesion characterization, and reduce contrast agent use—benefiting both patients and providers.

Multi-energy CT image showing high-resolution internal anatomy used for virtual non-contrast imaging Growing Market and Adoption

While still early in widespread adoption, the global photon-counting CT market is projected to grow rapidly. According to a recent report from Research and Markets, the global PCCT market is expected to reach over $800 million by 2030, driven by increasing demand for advanced diagnostic tools and a growing focus on radiation dose reduction.

As more vendors develop photon-counting detectors and more clinical use cases are validated, experts anticipate broader adoption beyond academic centers and into regional hospitals and imaging centers.

Source: Research and Markets, “Photon Counting CT Market – Forecast 2030”

How Teleradiology Supports Advanced CT Adoption

Deploying a photon-counting CT system requires more than just the hardware. Facilities must ensure they have access to radiologists who are:

  • Trained in multi-energy CT interpretation
  • Familiar with new artifact patterns and reconstructions
  • Able to optimize clinical workflows using new scan data types

That’s where teleradiology plays a critical role.

At Vesta Teleradiology, our radiologists stay at the forefront of imaging advances. With experience in multi-energy and advanced CT post-processing, we help facilities take full advantage of what photon-counting CT offers—delivering fast, accurate interpretations backed by subspecialty insight.

Integration and Workflow Considerations

Facilities considering photon-counting CT should think about:

  • PACS/RIS compatibility with new data formats
  • Training staff to understand and use spectral data
  • Building protocols for when and how to use PCCT scans
  • Collaborating with teleradiology teams for consistent interpretations

While the learning curve is real, the payoff is significant. Early adopters report better diagnostic confidence, fewer repeat scans, and more comprehensive patient evaluations.

Conclusion: Prepare for the Future of CT Imaging

Photon-counting CT represents the next leap in diagnostic precision. As this technology becomes more accessible, imaging leaders must evaluate how it fits into their long-term strategy. For facilities looking to stay competitive, offer premium diagnostics, and improve patient care, PCCT should be on the radar now—not later.

Partnering with a forward-thinking teleradiology provider like Vesta ensures you’re equipped with the expertise to unlock its full potential.

 

What CMS1074v2 Means for CT Radiation Dose Monitoring and Radiology Workflows

June 2025: CMS Rolls Out New CT Dose Quality Measure

In June 2025, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) officially implemented a new CT quality measure: CMS1074v2, which focuses on radiation dose and image quality metrics. The rule affects all healthcare providers performing computed tomography (CT) exams and is designed to enhance patient safety while addressing inconsistencies in dose reporting across facilities.

This marks a notable evolution in how CT imaging quality is tracked and reported under CMS’s Quality Payment Program, reinforcing the agency’s continued emphasis on value-based care and precision in diagnostic imaging.

What Is CMS1074v2?

CMS1074v2 centers around the calculation and monitoring of Size-Adjusted Dose (SAD) during CT scans. The measure requires providers to calculate a size-adjusted dose for each CT exam using effective diameter, then evaluate those values against accepted benchmarks for different anatomical regions (thorax, abdomen, pelvis, etc.).

This measure doesn’t just focus on radiation exposure — it links dose appropriateness with image quality, requiring radiology teams to balance diagnostic clarity and patient safety.

According to CMS, the goal is to encourage facilities to reduce unnecessary radiation while ensuring CT scans still meet clinical utility standards .

Why Is This a Big Deal for Radiology?

The challenge in radiology has long been striking a balance between diagnostic quality and dose minimization. Prior to CMS1074v2, there was no universal requirement for how facilities calculated size-adjusted dose, leading to large variability in methods and outcomes.

A March 2025 study published on arXiv found that five widely used methods for estimating effective diameter yielded significant differences in SAD calculations, which could directly influence whether a CT scan was categorized as compliant or not (source).

CMS1074v2 aims to reduce that variability by enforcing a consistent approach across providers. While the measure is currently limited to CT scans performed in outpatient settings, it’s expected that similar benchmarks may be expanded into hospital settings in the future.

How Imaging Centers Can Prepare

Implementing CMS1074v2 isn’t just about adding a new line item to reporting tools — it may require substantial changes to imaging workflows, technology, and staff training.

Here are key steps radiology departments should take:

  • Standardize Effective Diameter Calculations: Ensure your PACS or scanner software uses consistent measurement protocols.
  • Review CT Protocols for Dose Optimization: CT protocols may need to be adjusted to meet benchmark thresholds without compromising image quality.
  • Invest in Staff Training: Radiology technologists and supervising physicians must understand how SAD is derived and what values are considered acceptable for each body region.
  • Audit Current Practices: Review your historical CT exams to identify whether your dose metrics currently fall within expected parameters.

Potential Impact on Reimbursement and Compliance

CMS1074v2 is part of the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS), which affects how radiology providers are scored for quality performance. Noncompliance or poor performance on this measure could reduce reimbursement — especially for those participating in the Quality Payment Program.

However, facilities that demonstrate high compliance may benefit from positive scoring adjustments and recognition for imaging excellence. In other words, meeting this benchmark isn’t just about avoiding penalties — it could position your imaging center as a high-quality provider under CMS metrics.

Bottom Line: A Push Toward Precision and Safety

CMS1074v2 represents a bigger shift in imaging: toward measurable safety, transparency, and data-driven quality assurance. For radiology providers, especially those involved in high-volume CT scanning, this rule presents an opportunity to fine-tune protocols, improve patient outcomes, and strengthen compliance in a competitive healthcare environment.

While implementation requires coordination across teams, IT systems, and scanners, the end result may be safer, more efficient imaging that aligns with the future of value-based care.

 

 

 

National Stroke Awareness Month: The Role of Emergency Teleradiology in Rapid Stroke Diagnosis

May marks National Stroke Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about stroke prevention, recognition, and treatment. With strokes occurring approximately every 40 seconds in the U.S., timely diagnosis and intervention are paramount to improving patient outcomes

The Critical Window for Stroke Treatment

Strokes, whether ischemic or hemorrhagic, require immediate medical attention. The phrase “time is brain” underscores the urgency; delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to irreversible brain damage or death. Rapid imaging—particularly CT scans and MRIs—is essential to distinguish between stroke types and determine appropriate interventions.

The Emergence of Emergency Teleradiology

Emergency teleradiology has significantly changed how facilities approach stroke diagnosis. By enabling radiologists to interpret imaging studies remotely and in real time, healthcare providers can expedite critical decision-making, even when on-site radiology staff is unavailable. This is particularly valuable in rural or underserved areas where specialist access may be limited.

One recent study reported impressive turnaround times within a global teleradiology stroke network: non-contrast CT scans were interpreted in an average of 9.97 minutes, CT angiograms in 20.57 minutes, and CT perfusion studies in 13.72 minutes (Thieme Connect).

Real-World Impact: Mobile Stroke Units and Teleradiology

Innovations like mobile stroke units (MSUs)—ambulances equipped with onboard CT scanners and teleradiology connections—are delivering care faster than ever. In one comparative study, patients evaluated via MSU had significantly better outcomes and higher thrombolysis rates than those transported via standard ambulance (Radiology Business).

Addressing Disparities in Stroke Care

Timely diagnosis and treatment for stroke are not consistent across regions. Teleradiology helps close these gaps by connecting clinicians in remote or resource-limited locations to expert radiologists quickly. For example, in Queensland, Australia, a regional hospital successfully administered clot-busting drugs after a telestroke consult enabled real-time CT interpretation and neurologist review (Courier Mail).

Vesta Teleradiology: Committed to Rapid Stroke Diagnosis

At Vesta Teleradiology, we recognize the critical importance of timely neuroimaging. Our services provide:

  • 24/7/365 emergency teleradiology coverage for stroke-related imaging
  • Radiologists with expertise in interpreting CT, CTA, and MRI for stroke diagnosis
  • Seamless communication with ER teams for rapid turnaround and actionable reporting

By partnering with Vesta, healthcare providers can strengthen their stroke response systems—improving access, speed, and ultimately, patient outcomes.

Conclusion

As we observe National Stroke Awareness Month, it’s important to spotlight the advancements that are reshaping stroke care. Emergency teleradiology plays a vital role in helping facilities deliver fast, accurate diagnosis when every minute counts. With the right systems and partnerships in place, more lives can be saved—and more patients can recover fully.

Contact Vesta Teleradiology today to learn how our emergency teleradiology services support hospitals, stroke centers, and ER teams across the country.

 

The Silent Strain: How Radiologist Shortages Are Impacting Patient Wait Times Nationwide

Across the United States, radiologist shortages are creating a ripple effect that many patients never see—until they’re left waiting. Waiting for a diagnosis. Waiting for peace of mind. Waiting for answers that may change the course of their care.

In Michigan, a patient recently reported waiting over 80 days for imaging results. Another waited three months for mammogram findings. These delays aren’t isolated. They’re part of a larger trend, driven by a persistent imbalance between the number of radiologists available and the ever-growing demand for diagnostic imaging.

A Nationwide Bottleneck

According to recent projections from the Harvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute, the radiologist shortage is expected to continue through 2055 if action isn’t taken. Even with moderate increases in the number of new residents entering the field, demand for imaging — especially advanced modalities like CT and MRI — is expected to outpace supply.

Contributing factors include:

  • An aging population requiring more imaging.
  • Increasing use of imaging in preventive and chronic disease care.
  • Radiologist burnout and early retirements, especially post-COVID.
  • Limited growth in federally funded residency slots.

The Real-World Impact: Delayed Diagnoses, Frustrated Patients

For hospitals and imaging centers, the shortage translates into longer turnaround times, heavier workloads, and sometimes critical delays. For patients, the effects are personal and painful.

Delayed imaging results can:

  • Prolong anxiety around undiagnosed conditions.
  • Delay the start of necessary treatment.
  • Create bottlenecks in care coordination between departments.

And for rural or smaller hospitals, the challenge is even greater. With fewer in-house specialists, these facilities are often forced to outsource or delay imaging interpretations—unless they have a trusted teleradiology partner.

A Scalable Solution: Vesta Teleradiology

At Vesta Teleradiology, we understand the strain radiology departments are under. That’s why we offer 24/7/365 access to U.S.-based, board-certified radiologists—available for both preliminary and final reads, STAT or routine. Whether you’re managing a busy urban hospital or a small rural facility, our scalable services can be tailored to your needs.

We provide:

  • No minimum read requirements
  • Subspecialty interpretations across neuro, MSK, cardiac, PET, pediatric, and more
  • Customizable workflows and reporting formats
  • Efficient communication channels for urgent findings and consults

Our goal is simple: to help you deliver timely, high-quality care without compromise.

The Bottom Line

Radiologist shortages may be a long-term challenge, but patient care can’t wait. Hospitals and healthcare facilities need dependable partners now more than ever.

If your team is feeling the pressure of delayed reads or overwhelmed radiology staff, Vesta Teleradiology is here to help.

Reach out today to learn how we can support your imaging department with fast, flexible, and expert radiology interpretations.

 

 

Q1 2025 AI Radiology Roundup: Smarter Screening, Streamlined Referrals, and Intelligent Ultrasound Innovations

The first quarter of 2025 has seen impressive strides in the integration of artificial intelligence across the radiology spectrum. From breast cancer screening and interventional radiology referrals to next-gen ultrasound systems, AI continues to redefine efficiency, accuracy, and clinical outcomes. Below, we highlight three major developments shaping the future of radiology.

 

  1. Large Language Models Streamline IR Procedure Requests—For Just Pennies

In a study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, researchers at Duke University Medical Center demonstrated that large language models (LLMs) like GPT-4 can accurately and efficiently route interventional radiology (IR) procedure requests—at a cost of only $0.03 per request.

By training the model on structured rules based on real IR team schedules and procedures, the AI achieved 96.4% accuracy in routing “in-scope” requests and 76% accuracy for out-of-scope queries. The tool helps clinicians connect with the right provider faster, improving coverage efficiency while avoiding unnecessary procedure orders.

With its adaptability to different hospital systems and minimal setup requirements, this LLM-powered tool could soon become a scalable solution for streamlining IR consultations nationwide.

“This approach is highly adaptable… and does not depend on training a dedicated model,” said Dr. Brian P. Triana, lead author.

 

  1. AI Mammography Boosts Cancer Detection by 29% in Landmark MASAI Trial

A game-changing trial out of Sweden—Mammography Screening with Artificial Intelligence (MASAI)—has reinforced the clinical power of AI in breast cancer screening. Published in The Lancet Digital Health, the randomized study followed over 105,000 women and found that AI-assisted screening increased cancer detection rates by 29% and reduced radiologist workload by 44%.

 

The AI tool, Transpara, was especially effective in identifying small, invasive cancers and high-grade in situ cancers—without increasing false positives. Radiologists using Transpara received real-time lesion detection and risk scores, helping reduce both overcalls and overlooked cancers.

“AI-supported screening can significantly enhance early detection while optimizing the use of healthcare resources,” said Dr. Kristina Lång of Lund University.

These results underscore AI’s role not just as a support tool but as a potential standard in future breast cancer screening protocols.

 

  1. Samsung Unveils AI-Powered Ob/Gyn Ultrasound System for U.S. Market

Samsung Medison made waves at the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) 2025 with the launch of its new AI-enhanced ob/gyn ultrasound system, the Samsung Z20.

The Z20 features Live ViewAssist, a real-time deep learning tool designed to streamline advanced obstetrical exams. Its capabilities include automatic structure labeling, real-time image quality assessment, and AI-powered measurements—all aimed at improving diagnostic precision and reducing repetitive strain on clinicians.

Addressing challenges in imaging patients with high BMI and promoting ergonomic design, the Z20 represents a leap forward in both performance and provider wellness. Additionally, Samsung showcased Sonio, its cloud-based ultrasound reporting platform, marking a step toward more integrated, AI-driven workflows in women’s health.

From improving clinical throughput to enhancing diagnostic confidence, AI is becoming indispensable in radiology. As Q1 2025 wraps up, the message is clear: artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept in imaging—it’s a present-day solution driving meaningful change.

Stay tuned as we continue to track these innovations and explore how AI will shape the next quarter in diagnostic imaging and beyond.

 

Finding the Right Teleradiology Company: Why Subspecialty Expertise Matters More Than Ever

As the demand for specialized medical imaging continues to rise, healthcare facilities face significant challenges in accessing qualified radiologists, particularly in subspecialties such as neuroradiology, musculoskeletal radiology, and pediatric imaging. This shortage is exacerbated in rural hospitals and underserved areas, where recruiting and retaining subspecialty radiologists is often difficult. Partnering with a teleradiology company that offers subspecialty expertise has become essential for ensuring timely and accurate diagnoses.​

The Growing Demand for Subspecialty Teleradiology

Several factors contribute to the increasing need for subspecialty teleradiology services:​

  • Aging Population: The U.S. population aged 65 and older grew by 38.6% from 2010 to 2020, leading to a higher demand for imaging services. ​acr.org
  • Radiologist Workforce Shortage: Approximately 56.4% of diagnostic radiologists are 55 or older, indicating a significant portion of the workforce is nearing retirement. ​medicushcs.com
  • Increased Imaging Utilization: Advancements in medical imaging technology have led to more frequent use of imaging studies, increasing the workload for radiologists. ​acr.org

These trends underscore the necessity for teleradiology services that provide access to subspecialty-trained radiologists, ensuring that healthcare providers can meet the growing demands of patient care.​

Supporting Rural Hospitals and Underserved Areas

Rural hospitals often face unique challenges in providing comprehensive radiology services due to limited access to subspecialty radiologists. Teleradiology bridges this gap by enabling remote interpretation of imaging studies, allowing rural healthcare providers to offer quality healthcare services locally and at lower costs. ​ruralhealthinfo.org

rural radiologistsHow Vesta Teleradiology Provides Specialized Radiology Support

Vesta Teleradiology addresses these challenges by offering comprehensive teleradiology services nationwide, including:​

  • Access to Subspecialty-Trained Radiologists: Vesta provides access to a wide range of highly specialized, U.S.-trained, and American Board of Radiology-certified radiologists proficient in various modalities.​ 
  • Customizable Reporting and PACS Solutions: Our reporting module allows customization of reports to include the facility’s logo and adjust layouts to match existing reports. Our comprehensive PACS enables the creation of master accounts with sub-accounts, facilitating seamless integration into existing workflows.​ 
  • 24/7 STAT and Routine Reads: We interpret both STAT and routine cases, delivering detailed interpretations with quick turnaround times (Ohio, Illinois, Arizona, Georgia, Florida and more). Our flexible workflow supports various facility needs, from portable imaging units to stand-alone imaging centers and hospitals handling high-end cases.​ 
  • Efficient Communication with Referring Physicians: Our case managers facilitate communication between our radiologists and the facility’s referring physicians to answer questions and relay positive findings promptly. We customize the notification of significant findings to different recipients based on the time of day.​
Why Subspecialty Teleradiology Matters for Patient Care

Utilizing subspecialty-trained radiologists through teleradiology services like Vesta ensures:​

  • Accurate Diagnoses: Specialized radiologists are adept at identifying subtle findings specific to their area of expertise, leading to precise diagnoses.​ 
  • Timely Treatment: Quick access to expert interpretations facilitates prompt decision-making and initiation of appropriate treatments.​ 
  • Cost Efficiency: Accurate and timely diagnoses can reduce unnecessary tests and procedures, optimizing healthcare resources.​
The Right Teleradiology Partner Makes All the Difference

Choosing a teleradiology provider with subspecialty expertise is crucial for delivering high-quality patient care. Vesta Teleradiology offers:​

  • U.S.-trained, board-certified subspecialists
  • Fast, detailed interpretations with high accuracy
  • Seamless PACS and reporting system integration
  • Dedicated support and case management
  • Reliable coverage for rural and critical access hospitals

By partnering with Vesta Teleradiology, healthcare facilities can enhance their diagnostic capabilities, improve patient outcomes, and efficiently manage increasing imaging demands.

 

 

What Healthcare Providers Need to Know About FDA-Cleared CGM Sensors During Imaging: A Guide to FreeStyle Libre 2 and 3

In a significant advancement for diabetes care, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted clearance for Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 2 and 3 continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems to be worn during common imaging procedures, including X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. This development marks the first time CGM sensors can remain in place during such tests, offering enhanced convenience and continuous glucose monitoring for patients. ​

Implications for Healthcare Providers

As healthcare professionals, it’s essential to understand the nuances of this FDA clearance to guide patient care effectively:​

  • Enhanced Patient Convenience: Previously, patients were required to remove their CGM sensors before imaging procedures, leading to potential data gaps and the inconvenience of sensor replacement. With this clearance, patients using FreeStyle Libre 2 and 3 systems can maintain continuous glucose monitoring during imaging, reducing disruptions in diabetes management.
  • Safety Considerations: While the sensors are now approved for use during imaging procedures, it’s crucial to note that sensor readings may be compromised during an MRI. However, system function is expected to return to normal within one hour post-procedure. ​

Guidance for Patient Communication

Effective communication with patients regarding this development is vital:​

  • Pre-Procedure Consultation: Encourage patients to inform all members of their healthcare team about their use of the FreeStyle Libre 2 or 3 systems prior to scheduling imaging procedures. This ensures coordinated care and appropriate precautions during the imaging process.​
  • Setting Expectations: Inform patients that while they can keep their CGM sensors on during imaging tests, there may be temporary compromises in sensor readings, especially during MRIs. Reassure them that normal sensor function typically resumes within an hour after the procedure.​
  • Post-Procedure Monitoring: Advise patients to closely monitor their glucose levels following imaging procedures and to report any anomalies or concerns promptly.​

Operational Considerations for Healthcare Facilities

To integrate this new clearance into practice effectively:​

  • Staff Education: Ensure that radiology and imaging department staff are informed about the FDA clearance and understand that patients with FreeStyle Libre 2 and 3 sensors can undergo imaging without removing their devices.​
  • Protocol Updates: Revise existing imaging protocols to reflect this change, ensuring that all relevant personnel are aware and that patient workflows are adjusted accordingly.​
  • Equipment Compatibility: While the sensors are approved for use during imaging, remain vigilant about the specific conditions outlined by Abbott, especially concerning MRI procedures. Ensure that imaging equipment settings align with the recommended parameters to maintain patient safety and device integrity. ​

 

 

By staying informed and updating clinical practices, healthcare providers like those in radiology centers, emergency rooms and VA medical centers can enhance patient care, reduce disruptions in diabetes management, and ensure safety during imaging procedures involving CGM devices.

 

 

Addressing the Persistent Radiologist Shortage: Challenges and Solutions for the Future

The ongoing imbalance between radiologist supply and medical imaging demand in the U.S. is projected to continue through 2055 without significant intervention, according to recent research by the Neiman Health Policy Institute, (NHPI), published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology on February 12. As the population grows and ages, and imaging utilization increases, the shortage of radiologists poses a significant challenge for healthcare systems nationwide.

Projected Growth in Radiologist Supply

The NHPI study anticipates a nearly 26% increase in the supply of radiologists over the next 30 years, assuming residency numbers remain unchanged. However, even this growth may not be sufficient to meet rising imaging demands. If residency positions increase, the radiologist workforce could see a 40% expansion by 2055. Yet, attrition rates—especially post-COVID—pose a threat to this growth, highlighting the need for initiatives aimed at improving workplace well-being and retaining experienced radiologists.

Increasing Demand for Imaging Services

The demand for imaging services is expected to rise between 17% and 27% by 2055, driven largely by population growth and aging. Specific modalities like CT scans may see utilization increases as high as 59%, while others, such as nuclear medicine, may experience a decline. These projections underscore the urgency of balancing supply and demand to prevent prolonged patient wait times and compromised care.

Current Impact on Patients and Healthcare Systems

Patients across the U.S., including those in West Michigan, are already feeling the impact of the radiologist shortage. Delays in receiving imaging results have caused frustration, particularly for individuals with pressing health concerns such as fibroids and breast cancer risk. Healthcare providers, from radiologists to patient care technicians, are also facing mounting pressure to deliver timely care amidst workforce shortages.

Potential Solutions to Mitigate the Shortage

To address this crisis, experts emphasize the need to increase radiology residency slots and curb inappropriate imaging use. Monitoring attrition patterns and enhancing workplace conditions are also crucial. Technological advancements, such as AI for improving radiologist efficiency and clinical decision support systems, present promising avenues for alleviating some of the burden on the current workforce.

Conclusion

The radiologist shortage in the U.S. is a complex issue that requires multifaceted solutions. Increasing residency positions, enhancing workplace well-being, and leveraging technology are essential steps to ensure patients receive timely and accurate imaging services.

Top Radiology Company: Onsite and Remote

At Vesta Teleradiology, we are committed to bridging the gap caused by radiologist shortages. Our team of U.S. board-certified radiologists offers both on-site and remote services, providing reliable imaging interpretations to meet your facility’s needs efficiently. Let us help you navigate the challenges of radiologist shortages with our expert solutions.