12198
Blog
Aidoc Staff

4 Key Insights on AI’s Role in Radiology

Read Time, Time to Treatment, Triage
Table of Contents

AI technology is advancing rapidly in radiology departments around the world, and few know its transformative potential better than Scott Williams, MD, Medical Director, Chief of Service and Vice Chairman, Department of Radiology at Hoag. In a recent discussion, Dr. Williams shared invaluable insights on how AI is reshaping radiology practice, enhancing patient care and ensuring efficiency. Here are four key takeaways from our discussion that demonstrate AI’s growing role in the field.

1. AI Enhances Radiology Without Replacing Radiologists

“People can’t imagine going backwards and not having this technology.”

Dr. Williams emphasized that AI is not about replacing radiologists, but empowering them to be more effective. AI’s ability to identify abnormalities, prioritize worklists and streamline workflows enhances the quality of care without diminishing the need for radiologists. While AI provides valuable support,. The radiologist remains the ground truth. As Dr. Williams put it, “we’re not going to be displaced anytime soon.”

2. AI Supports Patient Follow-Up and Prevents Cases From Falling Through the Cracks

“AI can help make sure patients get their follow-up studies in a timely fashion and don’t slip through the cracks.”

One of the untapped potentials of AI in radiology is its ability to improve patient follow-up management. Dr. Williams highlights that AI not only aids in the flagging of abnormalities but also helps ensure timely follow-ups, reducing the chances of patients being lost in the system. This not only improves patient outcomes but boosts hospital ROI by keeping patients on track for necessary studies.

3. AI Improves Time-to-Treatment and Communication Across Care Teams

“Minutes matter, and getting that information to the right person in an easily digestible manner is crucial.”

AI’s impact on radiology isn’t limited to imaging alone. Dr. Williams discusses how AI has improved communication between the radiology department and care teams, especially in urgent cases pulmonary embolism (PE) or aortic dissection. By notifying the right team members quickly, AI ensures that patients receive optimal care without delay. This seamless communication is essential, as “any opportunity to shortcut getting the patient the optimal care is welcomed.”

4. AI Drives Value Through ROI and Real-World Cost Savings

“We can create that narrative of saving money and providing good patient care.”

Dr. Williams explained how Hoag leveraged AI not just for its clinical benefits but also to demonstrate real-world savings. With no direct reimbursement for AI in diagnostic radiology, creating a solid ROI narrative is key. By extrapolating data from leading institutions as well as at Hoag, Dr. Williams calculated potential savings in length of stay and efficiency of care, which helped secure funding for expanding the program. This data-driven approach allowed them to grow their AI capabilities, scaling from a few initial modules to 15 today. 

Charting the Future

Dr. Williams remains excited about AI’s potential, noting that “we’re not even close to tapping all the potential of AI in radiology.” With its ability to improve workflows, patient care and efficiency, the technology continues to evolve–and so does the role of the radiologist. As AI matures, its applications in areas beyond imaging, such as follow-up management, will only expand, making it an exciting time for the field. 

Explore the Latest AI Insights, Trends and Research

Follow a manual added link

Webinars

Aidoc experts, customers and industry leaders share the latest in AI benefits and adoption.

Follow a manual added link

eBooks

Explore how clinical AI can transform your health system with insights rooted in real-world experiences.

Follow a manual added link

AI Strategy

Learn how to go beyond the algorithm to develop a scalable AI strategy and implementation plan.

Follow a manual added link

Solutions

Explore how Aidoc can help increase hospital efficiency, improve outcomes and demonstrate ROI.

Aidoc Staff

© Copyright 2024 Aidoc