Rad Strong: Through Collaborations, “We Are Stronger Together”

Despite the current “perfect storm” of political, economic, and social confusion, radiologists can breathe easier, knowing their profession is conscientiously working with other groups to improve the industry and healthcare overall.

“Within the house of radiology, we come from different perspectives, practices, and locations,” said Howard B. Fleishon, M.D., MMM, chair of the American College of Radiology (ACR) in a memo published in the May 28 Journal of the American College of Radiology.“But, we are all part of the community of radiology. We are stronger together.”

To further augment the profession’s position as a leader in healthcare, he said, the ACR has forged partnerships with multiple other organizations, bringing together skills and talents for a number of causes that can improve patient care. He outlined several initiatives that highlight these efforts.

• ACR and RSNA partnership to advise the U.S. Food & Drug Administration about autonomous artificial intelligence
• ACR, RSNA, and American Association of Physicists in Medicine collaboration to create the Medical Imaging Data Resource Center
• Radiology Heath Equity Coalition creation by ACR, American Board of Radiology, American Roentgen Ray Society, Association of University Radiologists, RSNA, Society of Chairs of Academic Radiology Departments, and Society of Interventional Radiology
• ACR representation at the World Health Organization, International Atomic Energy Association, International Society for Strategic Studies in Radiology, and International Society of Radiology
• ACR representation at the G7 for artificial intelligence policy development
• Lung Cancer Coalition with the American Cancer Society, the National Lung Cancer Round Table, the American Lung Association, and GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer
• Partnership for joint recommendations for breast cancer patients with the American Society of Breast Surgeons, National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, the Commission on Cancer, and the American College of Surgeons
• Advocacy for CT colonography insurance coverage through collaboration with the Colon Cancer Alliance, Medical Imaging and Technology Alliance, and the American Gastroenterological Association

It is through these initiatives and partnerships, he said, that radiology can help healthcare navigate the broader issues for the benefit of patients.

“Speaking with one voice, we will stand out from all the noise and confusion we find around us,” he concluded. “Standing together, we have the opportunity to promote our profession and serve our patients. Stronger together as the ACR and the radiology community.”

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