Key Concerns When Finding a Teleradiology Partner

Finding the right teleradiology partner becomes paramount, especially when faced with staffing shortages at hospitals, urgent care centers, or other healthcare facilities. As these institutions strive to maintain high-quality patient care amidst limited resources, outsourcing radiology services can provide a lifeline and has many benefits. However, the decision to engage a teleradiology partner demands careful consideration. From ensuring rapid turnaround times to guaranteeing impeccable quality and compliance, several crucial factors must be scrutinized to identify the ideal partner. Let’s delve into the essentials of what healthcare providers need to look out for when selecting a teleradiology partner in such critical circumstances.

 

Quality Workflow: Quality assurance in teleradiology involves ensuring that the interpretations provided by the radiologists are accurate and reliable. This includes verifying the qualifications and expertise of the interpreting radiologists, as well as implementing processes for peer review and ongoing quality monitoring.

 

Subspecialties: If your healthcare center needs specific types of readings like those for EKGs, ECHO, or DXA, it’s good to research if the teleradiology company offers these subspecialties for both preliminary and final readings.

 

Credentialing and Licensing: It’s crucial to confirm that the radiologists working with the teleradiology partner are appropriately licensed and credentialed to practice in the relevant jurisdictions. This involves verifying their credentials, certifications, and licensure status to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Vesta’s radiologists are all U.S. Board Certified.

 

Turnaround Time: Prompt delivery of radiology reports is essential for timely patient care and treatment decisions. When selecting a teleradiology partner, it’s important to inquire about their average turnaround times and their ability to meet the facility’s specific needs, especially during peak periods or emergencies. Expect fast turnaround times with Vesta. In fact, Vesta can meet emergency STAT needs and provide reports within just 30 minutes with accurate and high-quality reports.

turnaround times
Ask about their turnaround times

Security and Compliance: Teleradiology involves the transmission and storage of sensitive patient information, making data security and compliance with privacy regulations paramount. Healthcare providers should ensure that their teleradiology partner adheres to industry-standard security protocols, such as HIPAA compliance, and employs encryption and other measures to safeguard patient data. Vesta is 100% HIPAA compliant.

 

Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication channels between the healthcare facility and the teleradiology partner are essential for seamless collaboration. This includes establishing protocols for communication of urgent findings, as well as integrating teleradiology reports into the facility’s electronic health record (EHR) system for easy access by clinicians. Vesta is at your service 24/7/365. We not only retain the services of exceptional Radiologists who are immediately available to your referring physicians, we also employ a knowledgeable staff ready to address any questions.

 

Technical Support: Reliable IT infrastructure and technical support are essential for smooth image transmission and workflow efficiency. Healthcare providers should assess the teleradiology partner’s IT capabilities, including their systems for image transfer, storage, and viewing, as well as their responsiveness to technical issues or downtime.

 

Cost-effectiveness: While quality of service is paramount, healthcare providers must also consider the cost-effectiveness of partnering with a teleradiology provider. This involves evaluating the partner’s pricing structure, including any subscription fees, per-case charges, or additional costs for expedited services, and comparing it with the value provided. Vesta helps healthcare providers whether they have small, medium or even large volumes.

 

Reputation and Experience: Partnering with a reputable teleradiology provider with a proven track record is crucial for peace of mind and quality assurance. Healthcare providers should research the partner’s reputation, including client testimonials, case studies, and industry recognition, and assess their experience in providing teleradiology services to similar facilities or specialties. Vesta has been in service for over 16 years and has a proven track record of success!

 

Expert Teleradiology Company in the US: Vesta

Do you need a qualified teleradiology partner? Vesta is here for you whether in full capacity or just partially. Contact us to learn more: 877-558-3782

 

Sources:

Medium.com
openai..com

 

New FDA Clearances for Imaging Systems and Solutions

FDA clearance for a diagnostic imaging machine indicates that the device has been deemed safe and effective for its intended use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. This clearance process involves thorough evaluation of the device’s design, performance, and manufacturing processes to ensure that it meets regulatory standards for quality, safety, and efficacy. Here’s the latest devices that have received FDA clearance.

 

The Magnetom Terra.X: MRI System

The Magnetom Terra.X, a new 7T MRI system, has received 510(k) clearance from the FDA. Manufactured by Siemens Healthineers, it’s a second-generation successor to the Magnetom Terra and offers several enhancements for 7T imaging. Key features include an eight-channel parallel transmit architecture for clinical use, deep learning image reconstruction optimized for 7T, improved diffusion imaging with a high-performance gradient system, and accelerated image acquisition enabling high-resolution brain and knee exams in under 20 minutes. Siemens Healthineers sees this as a significant step in providing better patient care, particularly in neurological and knee imaging. Additionally, the FDA clearance allows existing Magnetom Terra systems to be upgraded to the Magnetom Terra.X.

Image courtesy of Siemens Healthineers

SyMRI 3D for Brain Imaging

SyntheticMR has announced that its latest imaging solution, SyMRI 3D, has received FDA 510(k) clearance for clinical use in the United States. This clearance marks a significant advancement in quantitative MRI technology, offering exceptional resolution and accuracy in brain imaging. SyMRI 3D enables precise volumetric estimations of brain regions, known as parcellation, providing clinicians with deeper insights into brain structure and function. The enhanced resolution facilitates comprehensive lesion analysis, leading to more accurate medical condition assessments. This clearance empowers physicians to make more informed decisions in diagnosis and treatment planning, ultimately improving patient outcomes. SyntheticMR reaffirms its dedication to advancing medical imaging technology and providing innovative tools to enhance patient care through this milestone.

 

nCommand Lite for Remote Scanning

GE Healthcare has highlighted the FDA clearance of a solution by Ionic Health that enables technologists to remotely supervise patient scans. The system, called “nCommand Lite,” has been tested in Brazil for three years and is vendor-agnostic, allowing remote supervision across MRI, CT, and PET modalities. GE has secured exclusive distribution rights for nCommand in the U.S., aiming to address ongoing workforce shortages in healthcare. Rekha Ranganathan, GE’s chief digital officer for imaging, emphasized the company’s commitment to remote operations and increasing patient access to expert technologists. The system facilitates not only scanning supervision but also training, procedure assessment, and scanning parameter management. GE’s announcement coincides with growing interest in remote scanning, with the American College of Radiology advocating for permanent remote supervision of diagnostic tests. However, technologists have expressed reservations about managing imaging remotely, according to recent survey data from the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.

 

Sources:

Itnonline.com
Radiologybusiness.com
diagnosticimaging.com
openai.com

 

March AI News in Diagnostic Imaging

New Research by Harvard Medical School, MIT and Stanford on AI and Clinician Performance

The potential of medical artificial intelligence (AI) tools to enhance clinicians’ performance in interpreting medical images varies among individual clinicians, as highlighted by recent research led by Harvard Medical School, MIT, and Stanford. Published in Nature Medicine, the study underscores the intricate nature of human-AI interaction, which remains incompletely understood. While some radiologists benefit from AI assistance, others experience interference, affecting diagnostic accuracy.

The findings stress the necessity for personalized AI systems tailored to individual clinicians, emphasizing careful implementation to maximize benefits and minimize harm. Despite variations in AI’s impact, the results shouldn’t deter AI adoption but rather prompt a deeper understanding of human-AI dynamics to design approaches that enhance human performance.

To ensure effective integration of AI in clinical practice, collaboration between AI developers and clinicians is essential, alongside rigorous testing in real-world scenarios. Furthermore, efforts should focus on improving AI accuracy and training radiologists to discern AI inaccuracies, facilitating informed decision-making. Ultimately, understanding the complexities of machine-human interaction is pivotal for optimizing patient care through AI integration in radiology.

AI and Workflows

New research highlights a novel reporting workflow that automatically incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) findings into structured radiology reports, streamlining physicians’ tasks and saving valuable time. German experts shared their experience with the “AI to SR pipeline,” which integrates a commercially available AI tool for chest X-ray pathology detection and localization into structured report templates.

In evaluations conducted at University Medical Center Mainz, expert radiologists found that reports generated using the AI to SR pipeline were faster compared to free-text reporting and conventional structured reporting. Additionally, subjective quality assessments indicated higher ratings for reports created with the pipeline.

In the hospital’s clinical routine, chest X-ray images are sent to the picture archiving and communication system, then automatically forwarded to the AI tool for analysis. The results are output in a DICOM structured reporting format, taking approximately five minutes from image acquisition to final reporting. Radiologists were able to create chest X-ray reports significantly faster with the pipeline compared to free-text and conventional structured reporting, while also rating the AI-generated reports more favorably.

The authors suggest that this AI-driven reporting pipeline offers standardized, time-efficient, and high-quality reporting for chest X-rays, potentially enhancing AI integration into daily clinical practice and maximizing its benefits.

 

Sources:

Medicalxpress.com
Radiologybusiness.com
Openai.com

 

The Latest in Brain Imaging News

In recent years, awareness surrounding brain injuries has steadily risen, prompting significant strides in diagnostic technologies and treatment modalities. As we delve into the latest developments in this critical area of healthcare, it becomes increasingly apparent that advancements in medical imaging, particularly in the realm of neurological disorders, are poised to revolutionize the landscape of brain injury diagnosis and management.

 

AI-based Quantitative Brain Imaging System

Philips and Synthetic MR have joined forces to advance the diagnosis of neurological disorders through cutting-edge quantitative brain imaging tools. Their collaboration introduces the Smart Quant Neuro 3D MRI software suite, combining Philips’ SmartSpeed image-reconstruction technology, the 3D SyntAc clinical application, and SyntheticMR’s SyMRI NEURO 3D software. This innovation employs AI to analyze brain tissues, enhancing the detection and analysis of conditions like multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injuries, and dementia.

The rise of AI in diagnostic imaging, projected to reach $1.2bn by 2027, signifies a transformative shift in improving accuracy and patient outcomes. With the diagnostic imaging market expected to grow to $9.1bn by 2030, fueled by demand for early disease diagnosis and personalized medicine, this partnership underscores the crucial role of AI in enhancing medical imaging.

Read the press release here.

 

A New Way of Diagnosing Mild TBIs

Researchers have developed a novel brain imaging method to diagnose mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs), which are often missed by standard techniques like MRI. This method involves loading gadolinium, a common MRI contrast agent, into micropatches attached to immune cells called macrophages. These cells migrate to areas of brain inflammation caused by mTBIs, enabling MRI detection. The technique, called M-GLAMs, was successfully tested in mice and pigs, showing promise for accurately diagnosing mTBIs. It also allows imaging at lower gadolinium doses, potentially benefiting patients with kidney issues. While unable to pinpoint injury locations, M-GLAMs could aid in identifying and treating brain inflammation. The researchers aim to bring this technology to clinical trials, with support from grants and intellectual property protection.

Read the study here.

tbi

New Imaging Tech that Captures Neuronal Activity Across the Brain During Recovery

Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine have developed a novel imaging technology to monitor neuronal activity throughout the entire brain during the initial weeks of recovery from traumatic brain injury (TBI). Their study, published in Cerebral Cortex, reveals that TBI can induce changes in brain function beyond the injury site. Using a combination of fluorescent sensors and electrodes, they observed altered connectivity patterns in mice post-injury, even in regions distant from the impact. Despite the mice’s ability to perform physical tasks normally, their brain activity during both exercise and rest differed significantly from healthy brains. This impaired ability to switch between states suggests underlying brain state dysfunction post-injury. The findings highlight the brain’s plasticity in response to injury and have potential clinical implications for understanding TBI impacts and tailoring treatments. The researchers aim to further investigate long-term neural activity changes post-recovery and explore the technology’s potential in predicting specific dysfunctions or long-term outcomes of TBI. 

Read the study here.

 

 

Sources:

Medicaldevice-network.com
Otd.harvard.edu
Scitechdaily.com
Openai.com

 

How to Pick the Best Teleradiology Company

As the demand for healthcare services continues to surge and the shortage of healthcare workers persists, particularly in specialized fields, such as radiology, hospitals and healthcare centers find themselves facing the challenge of ensuring timely and accurate interpretations of medical imaging studies. The critical role of radiologists in diagnosing illnesses and guiding treatment decisions underscores the urgency of addressing this shortage. In response, many institutions are turning to teleradiology companies to bridge the gap and provide remote interpretation services. However, selecting the right teleradiology company is paramount to ensure high-quality patient care and seamless integration into existing workflows. In this discussion, we will explore the criteria for choosing a reputable teleradiology company, considering factors such as expertise, technology infrastructure, turnaround time, and adherence to regulatory standards. By making informed decisions in this regard, healthcare facilities can optimize their radiology services and meet the needs of patients efficiently.

remote radiology company
Rad tech and radiologist

Checklist for Choosing a Teleradiology Partner

Before selecting a teleradiology company, healthcare providers should consider several key factors to ensure they choose a partner that meets their needs and maintains high standards of service. Here are some important considerations:

  1. Quality and Expertise: Assess the qualifications and experience of the radiologists employed by the teleradiology company. Look for board-certified radiologists with expertise in relevant subspecialties. A recent survey of 2,749 radiologists from 108 countries reveals that while they read across almost five subspecialties daily, many lack confidence in certain areas. About 40% accept studies across all specialties, but less than half feel “very confident” in their current subspecialty, so it is vital to ensure the radiologists you work with have expertise in what you require.
  2. Technology and Infrastructure: Evaluate the teleradiology company’s technology infrastructure, including the software used for image transmission and reporting. Compatibility with existing systems and the ability to securely transmit images while maintaining patient privacy are crucial considerations.
  3. Turnaround Time: Timeliness is critical in radiology reporting. Consider the teleradiology company’s turnaround time for providing interpretations. Ideally, they should offer rapid reporting to facilitate prompt patient care and treatment decisions.
  4. 24/7 Availability: Healthcare facilities may require radiology services round-the-clock. Ensure that the teleradiology company offers 24/7 coverage (like at Vesta Teleradiology) to accommodate emergencies and provide continuous support.
  5. Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication between the teleradiology company and the healthcare facility is essential. Evaluate the company’s communication protocols, including how they handle urgent findings and facilitate collaboration between radiologists and onsite clinicians.
  6. Regulatory Compliance: Verify that the teleradiology company complies with all relevant regulatory standards, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) regulations for patient data protection. They should also adhere to industry standards for image quality and reporting accuracy.Regulatory compliance
  7. Scalability and Flexibility: Consider the scalability of the teleradiology service to accommodate fluctuations in imaging volumes. Additionally, assess their flexibility in tailoring services to meet the specific needs of your healthcare facility.
  8. Cost and Value: While cost is a factor, prioritize value over price alone. Evaluate the overall value proposition of the teleradiology company, considering factors such as quality, reliability, and the ability to improve patient outcomes.

By thoroughly evaluating these factors and conducting due diligence, healthcare providers can make an informed decision when choosing a teleradiology company, ultimately enhancing the quality and efficiency of radiology services within their organization.

Partnering with a Top US Teleradiology Company—Vesta

Vesta serves as your dependable ally in radiology, extending support to various subspecialties—whether you’re a busy urban hospital or a private practice. We ensure swift processing for both urgent and routine studies. Recognizing the value of your staff’s time and well-being, our teleradiology services enable them to maintain a healthier work-life balance by covering shifts during nights, weekends, and holidays. We can also accommodate any volumes so please reach out to us to learn more.

 

Sources:

hcinnovationgroup.com
Radiologybusiness.com
openai.com

 

New FDA Clearances: Imaging Technology

AI Enabled Software Program for Lung CT Scans:

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted 510(k) clearance for LungQ 3.0.0., an updated version of an artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled software platform designed for lung computed tomography (CT) scans. Developed by Thirona and currently utilized in over 600 hospitals, the enhanced software offers improved visualization and assessment of lung structures, including lobes and subsegments, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as emphysema and COVID-19. Thirona highlights that LungQ 3.0.0. enhances precision and efficiency in interventional procedures, ranging from lung segmentectomy and ablation to lung cancer biopsies and lung volume reduction. The software’s validation in over 200 global publications underscores its significance in advancing personalized treatment for lung patients. Eva van Rikxoort, the founder and CEO of Thirona, emphasizes the role of solutions like LungQ in ushering in a new era of personalized and less invasive procedures for lung diseases.

 

Strongest-Ever Gradient System: Siemens Magnetom Cima.X  3 Tesla

Siemens Healthineers has received FDA clearance for the Magnetom Cima.X 3 Tesla (3T) magnetic resonance imaging whole-body scanner. This scanner features the industry’s strongest gradient system for a clinically released whole-body MR scanner, providing improved visibility of smaller structures in the body and faster image capture. The Magnetom Cima.X also includes new features aimed at enhancing scientific research and addressing imaging challenges related to cancer and other diseases. The high gradient level of the Gemini Gradients, with an amplitude of 200 mT/m and a slew rate of 200 T/m/s, allows for better study of neurodegenerative diseases and can be leveraged across the body. The scanner introduces Physiologging for precise, time-stamped physiological data during functional brain imaging and the Open Recon platform for immediate image reconstruction using custom algorithms directly on the scanner. Additionally, key features such as BioMatrix technology, Deep Resolve reconstruction technology, and myExam Companion workflow solution contribute to improved clinical performance, increased productivity, and a better patient experience. Katie Grant, Vice President of Magnetic Resonance at Siemens Healthineers North America, highlights the scanner’s ability to deliver new insights into oncologic, cardiac, and neurodegenerative diseases.

 

First FDA-Cleared Portable Magnetic Resonance Brain Imaging System

Hyperfine, Inc. has launched the eighth generation of its Swoop® system software, featuring an AI-powered diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) denoising feature that received FDA clearance in October 2023. The software enhances the image quality of the Swoop® system, the world’s first FDA-cleared portable magnetic resonance brain imaging system. The update introduces ease-of-use features, including real-time assistance for precise patient loading and positioning, as well as a streamlined image upload process. With CE and UKCA certifications, Hyperfine is positioned for international expansion, aiming to reach a broader global market. The software focuses on improving image quality in the DWI sequence, crucial for stroke imaging. The limited market release phase received positive feedback, with users praising DWI image quality and workflow efficiencies. The update allows clinicians to view each series in real-time, communicate with technologists, and share critical findings with clinicians without waiting for the entire study to be completed.

Sources:

Hyperfine.io
itnonline.com
diagnosticimaging.com
openai.com

Top Imaging News of 2023

As we bid adieu to the final moments of 2023, it’s a great time to reflect on advancements and studies that have redefined the world of imaging this year. In this article, we’ll delve into the hottest news and breakthroughs in imaging, highlighting the remarkable strides that have made the headlines.

Study Suggest that Cancer Death Risk From Low-Dose Radiation Is Underestimated

A recent study featured in the British Medical Journal unveils concerning associations between extended exposure to low-dose radiation, commonly experienced by nuclear industry workers, and amplified cancer-related mortality. Drawing insights from the International Nuclear Workers Study (INWORKS) encompassing data from over 300,000 workers, researchers discovered a stark reality: for each cumulative unit of radiation exposure, the risk of death from solid cancer surged by 52%. Even at the lowest cumulative doses, this risk doubled, challenging the assumption that low-dose exposures present less carcinogenic hazard. While the absolute risk remains small, these findings prompt reconsideration of safety limits for workers and call for further studies to confirm the accelerated risk of cancer with ionizing radiation exposure. The hope is that regulatory bodies will integrate these insights into revising protection standards for individuals exposed to low-dose radiation.

Long COVID

In a study published in Medical Hypotheses, a French group presented a theory regarding the brain fog experienced in long COVID, based on brain patterns identified in patient PET scans. They propose that inflammation triggered by COVID-19 disrupts astrocyte cells’ regulation of glutamate, impacting energy metabolism and leading to cognitive fatigue. The authors suggest targeting this malfunction with therapies focused on astrocytic glutamate regulation as a potential way to alleviate long-COVID neurological symptoms. They highlight the lack of mental clarity, difficulty concentrating, and cognitive strain characterizing long COVID, affecting up to 15% of patients after three months of the initial infection. This study builds on previous findings of hypometabolism patterns in long COVID patients’ brain images and explores cellular mechanisms, including links between glutamate dysregulation and cognitive fatigue from other studies. Drawing parallels with “chemo-fog” in cancer patients and cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease, the authors suggest therapeutic strategies targeting the identified brain patterns, citing examples from epilepsy treatments and a recent study using medication to improve cognitive function in long-COVID patients. However, the authors stress the need for further research, proposing PET imaging studies using specific markers to comprehend astrocyte function and glutamate regulation for a comprehensive understanding of long COVID’s underlying mechanisms.

chemo fog
Study on brain fog experienced in long COVID

MRIs and Past Cannabis Users

At the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM) annual meeting, New Zealand researchers presented findings on heavy cannabis use in adolescence to early adulthood and its correlation with brain structure differences in hippocampus and amygdala subregions. The study, led by medical physicist Rebecca Lee and colleagues from the University of Otago in Christchurch, indicated volumetric disparities in these brain regions among heavy cannabis users compared to non-using controls. Notably, past cannabis users showed smaller volumes in specific hippocampal and amygdala subregions. However, the research did not find detectable differences in cerebral blood flow or white-matter tract integrity related to cannabis use, suggesting potential transient brain changes or no long-term effect on these properties. The study, conducted using MRI techniques, emphasized the need for longitudinal studies to clarify the causation and long-term functional impacts of these structural brain changes associated with heavy cannabis use. Despite revealing structural brain changes linked to cannabis use, the study does not definitively establish a causal relationship between these changes and cannabis consumption. Further prospective longitudinal MRI studies are essential to elucidate causality in this context.

MRI study

All About AI

We’d be remiss to not mention how artificial intelligence has shaped the industry this year. Check out our previous articles highlighting the impact that ChatGPT and Bard have made in 2023.

 

Sources:

technologynetworks.com
auntminnie.com
Openai.com

How Does Teleradiology Actually Work?

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, the prominence and necessity of teleradiology have surged to the forefront. With advancements in technology and the growing demand for efficient, timely, and accurate diagnostic services, especially in light of staffing shortages, teleradiology has emerged as a pivotal solution. Teleradiology not only addresses the increasing demand for imaging interpretations but also bridges geographical gaps, enabling swift access to specialized radiologists regardless of location. Its rising popularity stems from its ability to enhance healthcare delivery by offering remote interpretations, thereby improving patient outcomes and streamlining diagnostic processes in a progressively interconnected world.

Teleradiology operates by leveraging digital communication technologies to transmit medical images, such as X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds, from one location to another for interpretation and diagnosis.

Here’s a breakdown of how teleradiology works in real time:

Image Capture: Medical images are taken at a healthcare facility using specialized imaging equipment, creating digital files.

Image Transmission: These digital images are securely transmitted over networks, often utilizing Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) or secure internet connections.

Remote Interpretation: Radiologists, often located at a different site or working remotely, receive these images. They access the images through specialized software, review them in real time, and provide interpretations, diagnoses, and reports.

Consultation and Reporting: Upon reviewing the images, radiologists generate detailed reports containing their findings, interpretations, and recommendations. They may also engage in consultations with healthcare providers or specialists as needed.

Communication: The reports and findings are transmitted back to the referring healthcare facility, where they become part of the patient’s medical record. This allows for prompt decision-making and treatment planning by the attending physicians.

how teleradiology works
Physicians go over a patient’s scan

Quality Control: Teleradiology services often have quality assurance measures in place to ensure accurate and timely interpretations, adhering to industry standards and protocols.

 

Throughout this process, encryption and secure transmission protocols are employed to safeguard patient data and comply with healthcare privacy regulations (such as HIPAA in the United States). The real-time nature of teleradiology facilitates quicker diagnoses, especially in emergency situations, and enables access to specialized expertise irrespective of geographical barriers.

 

Top Teleradiology Company: Vesta is Here for You 24/7/365

Vesta is here to be your supporting partner in radiology, even for subspecialties. We offer fast turnaround for both STAT and Routine studies. Your staff is important–they don’t always work around the clock and shouldn’t have to. With our teleradiology services, you can allow your staff a better work-life balance while we fill in those gaps whether it’s during night hours, weekends, holidays.

 

Sources:

Acr.org
openai.com

 

RSNA 2023 Annual Meeting Highlights and Special Exhibits

The RSNA Annual Meeting stands as a pivotal event in the realm of radiology, serving as a dynamic nexus where cutting-edge advancements, emerging trends, and transformative innovations converge. This annual gathering not only showcases the latest breakthroughs in medical imaging but also fosters a collaborative environment where radiology professionals from various subspecialties can engage with state-of-the-art technologies, exchange insights, and navigate the intricate landscape of healthcare’s future.

Trending topics for RSNA 2023

This year’s meeting will be held on November 26-30. It will feature diverse trends across radiology subspecialties, with a notable emphasis on AI and photon-counting CT applications. Theranostics and the use of large language models are also gaining popularity. The event will offer non-interpretive sessions focusing on skills development and addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare. The RSNA Annual Meeting Learning Center will provide a comprehensive experience, including the latest research, CME opportunities, and insights for improving DEI and health equity. Attendees can access a quick-reference guide to navigate trending topics and recommended sessions by subspecialty.

Some notable plenary sessions include:

Leading Through Technology: Valuing Artificial and Human Intelligence led by Elizabeth S. Burnside, MD, MPH; The Future of Healthcare Delivery: Considerations for Patients and Providers led by Vin Gupta, MD and Understanding and Revitalizing the Radiology Workforce led by Jocelyn D. Chertoff, MD, MS.

Technical Exhibits

The RSNA 2023 Technical Exhibits promise an immersive experience at the forefront of medical imaging innovation, boasting nearly 700 leading manufacturers, suppliers, and technology developers. The event showcases the latest advancements in AI through the AI Showcase, featuring over 90 companies presenting AI solutions, software demonstrations, and product displays. Attendees can delve into the RSNA AI Theater to explore hot topics in AI, machine learning, and deep learning, with special recognition for winners of AI challenges. The 3D Printing & Mixed Reality Showcase in the North Hall offers networking opportunities in 3D medical printing, augmented reality, and virtual reality.

 

 

Learn more at RSNA.org

Sources:
itnonline.com
rsna.org
openai.com

 

Growth in Demand for Imaging Procedures Will Increase Need for Teleradiology

The healthcare market is experiencing a shift towards outpatient care, driven by reimbursement changes, pandemic effects, and patient preferences, particularly prominent in the U.S. Providers are diversifying into sub-specializations like neurology and oncology, raising the demand for advanced imaging like MRI and CT. This trend has led to increased utilization of outpatient imaging and teleradiology services.

By the NuMbers

Diagnostic imaging is becoming increasingly crucial in healthcare, with the market projected to reach $31.9bn in 2023 and grow at a 4.8% CAGR to $45.8bn in 2030. The rise is driven by chronic diseases, an aging population, and post-Covid-19 demand recovery. To meet this demand, companies are focusing on advanced and accessible technologies, such as handheld ultrasounds. About 1,949 imaging devices are in development, with 112 expected to gain approval in 2023.

imaging device

According to Fortune Business Insights, in 2022, the computed tomography (CT) segment held the largest market share due to a rise in CT scan procedures and higher average pricing. For instance, OECD data for 2021 showed 84.5 million CT scan procedures in the U.S., up by 15.8% from the previous year. The growing geriatric population has also contributed to increased demand for CT scans.

Key Players

Key players include GE Healthcare, Philips, Siemens Healthineers, and more. Challenges include high equipment costs and a shortage of skilled personnel, impacting accessibility and patient care quality. Opportunities arise from the growing demand for imaging services, especially for chronic diseases, and the development of new modalities like 3D mammography and MRI-guided focused ultrasound. Emerging economies like India, China, and Brazil are pivotal, driven by rising chronic diseases. Major players like Siemens Healthineers are expanding in these markets. Additionally, teaching hospitals are increasing demand for advanced imaging methods to enhance patient care.

Your Dedicated Radiology Partner: Vesta

Partnering with Vesta as your radiology partner ensures access to accurate and timely imaging interpretations and readings for subspecialties. Whether you are an outpatient imaging center or traditional hospital, our collaboration offers a seamless and efficient experience. Trust us to be your reliable radiology partner, empowering you with the insights and tools needed for improved healthcare outcomes.

 

radiology peer reviewSources:

Itnonline.com
Medicaldevices-network.com
fortunebusinessinsights.com
openai.com