The Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) is set to host its annual meeting in December, continuing its legacy as the world’s premier medical imaging conference. Since its founding in 1915, RSNA has brought together radiologists, executives and other medical imaging professionals to advance the field of radiology. The RSNA conference is held annually in Chicago at McCormick Place, attracting more than 50,000 attendees from over 145 countries. RSNA 2024, whose theme this year is “Building Intelligent Connections,” is shaping up to be a dynamic event with an anticipated focus on innovations like AI in radiology and solutions to address ongoing challenges, such as radiologist burnout and staffing shortages.
What to Expect For This Year’s RSNA Conference
RSNA 2024 promises to be a key event for professionals seeking the latest in radiological advancements. So far, 690+ vendors are registered to exhibit, 208 of whom list AI as a key product category, indicating AI’s growing role in radiology. Let’s dive into some of the major themes we anticipate to see at this year’s conference:
Radiologist Shortage and Burnout
Radiologist burnout remains a critical issue in the medical community, exacerbated by the growing workload on radiologists. The shortage of radiologists has been a focal point at RSNA, and we anticipate that 2024 will be no different. This challenge is amplified by the increasing number of imaging studies, coupled with ongoing staffing issues, endemic to hospitals around the country.
Radiologists are asked to work longer hours, with fewer colleagues to help manage the workload. According to a 2023 Medscape survey, 44% of male radiologists and 65% of their female counterparts said they felt burned out. The radiologist shortage has fueled recruitment efforts across health systems, evidenced by the packed “Recruiter Row” at RSNA 2023. Expect similar trends this year as more hospitals and healthcare organizations look to recruit radiologists and imaging technologists to alleviate staffing pressures.
AI in Radiology
AI will undoubtedly be a dominant theme at RSNA 2024. The conference has become the epicenter for innovations in radiology AI, with AI exhibitors making up one of the largest product categories on the floor. AI in radiology is expanding, particularly in high-need areas like neuro/stroke and breast imaging. AI tools are increasingly used to assist radiologists by speeding up diagnoses, triaging urgent cases and improving overall radiology workflows.
AI’s impact has also been seen in stroke care, where AI systems can immediately review CT images and alert stroke teams. These systems are helping streamline treatment, saving valuable time during critical moments. Breast imaging is another area where AI is gaining ground, with AI algorithms used for both diagnostic support and workflow optimization.
While AI adoption is growing, many radiologists still implement AI in only one or two areas of their practice. RSNA 2024 will provide further insight into how radiologists can fully leverage AI to enhance efficiency and reduce burnout.
Takeaways From Last Year’s RSNA Conference
To get a sense of what RSNA 2024 may offer, it’s helpful to reflect on some key takeaways from the 2023 conference:
- AI as the New Standard of Care
AI has evolved from an experimental tool to becoming an essential part of modern radiology practice. Many radiologists now view AI as critical to working at the top of their license. AI tools are becoming an integral part of their workflows, helping them manage increasing workloads while maintaining high standards of care.
- Radiology’s Role in the AI-Driven Health System
Radiology is at the forefront of the AI revolution in healthcare. As healthcare systems increasingly adopt AI-driven solutions, radiologists must lead the conversation about AI’s value, not only in imaging but in broader healthcare transformation.
- Consolidation Into AI Platforms
Many health systems are consolidating their AI investments, choosing comprehensive platforms over individual solutions. Vendors that can offer robust, integrated AI platforms will stand out, making it easier for healthcare systems to integrate new technologies without overwhelming their existing infrastructure.
- The Overflow of AI Options
While the variety of AI solutions on the market is exciting, it also has created a challenging playing field for radiologists to navigate and understand. The sheer number of vendors offering AI tools highlights the need for more cohesive, platform-driven solutions that can be easily integrated into radiology workflows.
- RSNA Dates: The RSNA 2024 annual meeting will take place from December 1 to December 5, 2024 (with Technical Exhibits being December 1-4)
- RSNA Location: As always, the event will be held at McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois
- RSNA Schedule: The five-day event includes scientific presentations, workshops and vendor showcases, providing an in-depth look into the latest innovations in radiology
- RSNA Floor Plan: The expansive floor plan will feature hundreds of exhibitors, with AI-focused vendors taking center stage
- RSNA Virtual Meetings: For those unable to attend in person, RSNA 2024 will also offer a virtual option, allowing participants to engage with live presentations and virtual booths
- RSNA Registration: Registration is now open on the official RSNA website
Key Exhibitors at RSNA 2024
RSNA 2024 will showcase leading innovators in medical imaging and radiology. One of the key exhibitors to look out for is Aidoc (Booth #4911), a pioneer in clinical AI. Aidoc’s advanced AI solutions are designed to help radiologists improve patient outcomes by optimizing workflows, reducing burnout and enhancing efficiency.
Also, check out Aidoc’s partner booths:
- 4DMedical (Imbio) #2918
- icometrix nv #4903
- Gleamer #5144
- Riverain Technologies #4523
- ScreenPoint Medical #5316
- Merge by Merative #6100
- Optum (Change Healthcare) #6750
Their booths will offer hands-on demonstrations of their latest AI tools, showing how these technologies can be seamlessly integrated into daily radiology practice.
Other notable exhibitors include major medical device manufacturers, software vendors and imaging technology companies. With over 690 exhibitors in total, RSNA is the place to discover the next big thing in radiology.
An Event You Cannot Miss
RSNA 2024 is shaping up to be an essential event for anyone in radiology. From tackling the radiologist shortage to unveiling the latest advancements in AI, the conference will offer invaluable insights into the future of the field. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore groundbreaking technology that enhances diagnostic accuracy, improves workflows and ultimately drives better patient outcomes. Whether you’re looking to discover cutting-edge innovations or to shape the future of radiology, RSNA 2024 promises to deliver key takeaways for every healthcare professional.
Click here to meet Aidoc at RSNA 2024.
