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Turf wars in radiology: should it be radiologists or cardiologists who do cardiac imaging?
1Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. david.levin@mail.tju.edu
Insights
Advanced cardiac imaging techniques like computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have sparked debate between radiologists and cardiologists regarding study interpretation. Collaboration between specialties is recommended for optimal patient care.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Cardiac imaging technologies, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET), have seen significant advancements.
- These advancements have created professional overlap and contention between radiologists and cardiologists regarding the performance and interpretation of cardiac imaging studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the arguments from both radiology and cardiology perspectives concerning the interpretation of advanced cardiac imaging.
- To discuss strategies for radiologists to navigate this interdisciplinary landscape.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and professional viewpoints.
- Analysis of the roles and expertise of radiologists and cardiologists in cardiac imaging.
Main Results:
- Arguments supporting radiologists' primary role in interpreting cardiac imaging are presented.
- Arguments supporting cardiologists' involvement in cardiac imaging interpretation are also discussed.
Conclusions:
- While arguments favoring radiologists are compelling, the complexity of cardiac imaging necessitates collaboration between radiologists and cardiologists.
- A collaborative approach is suggested to ensure the highest standard of patient care in cardiac imaging.
Abstract:
In recent years, the cardiac capabilities of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and to a lesser extent positron emission tomography have rapidly advanced. This has led to contention between radiologists and cardiologists over who should perform and interpret these studies. The authors present the arguments favoring both sides and discuss strategies radiologists should pursue. Although the arguments favoring radiologists are more compelling, this may be an instance in which both sides should work together.
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