Radiology in modern economics - business as usual?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59667/sjoranm.v2i.11Keywords:
financial crisis, demedicalization, reimbursement of radiology, health care, centrality in patient careAbstract
Three components are critical to a well-functioning radiology system: (1) the discipline's self-perception and how it is perceived by others; (2) the radiologist as a clinician and human being; and (3) the economic resources available to the radiology department. Radiologists play a central role in diagnosis, treatment planning, image-guided therapy, and radiation protection [1]. Economic pressure can reduce reimbursement, constrain staffing and investment, and encourage organizational models in which medical responsibility becomes less visible [2, 3]. This article discusses strategies that may help radiology remain clinically integrated, professionally independent, and economically sustainable. It argues for strong clinical engagement, realistic evaluation of technology and artificial intelligence, and transparent allocation of resources.
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