Medical imaging, radiation therapy professionals urged to embrace AI
The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) has published a new white paper on AI and its potential impact on the work of medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals.
The 21-page document, available in full on the ASRT website, was written by the society’s Health care Industry Advisory Council (HCIAC) Corporate Roundtable Subcommittee on Artificial Intelligence. It includes a glossary of key terms, examples of the benefits and challenges associated with AI and a detailed examination of the ethical use of AI-based solutions.
The ASRT also surveyed approximately imaging and radiation therapy professionals for the white paper, oversampling individuals between the ages of 19 and 35 to “ensure representation from that group.” The team received more than 400 responses, noting that “respondents are comfortable with technology and use it frequently” and “most respondents are familiar with the concepts of AI and machine learning.”
The white paper concludes by listing some specific ways industry professionals can get more involved with AI, a step they view as especially important. Participating or leading efforts to implement AI, for example, can help an individual stay up to date on technological breakthroughs.
“Medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals should embrace the positive role of AI in patient care and its assistance with manual and repetitive tasks, leaving them time to perform more value-added responsibilities,” according to the white paper. “Professionals still will practice the science and techniques for which they were trained with the help of relatable, pertinent, and predictive tools. The combination of equipment with machine learning and the educated professional will help radiologic science staff work smarter while providing the essential human element of patient care.”
Michael has more than 18 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.