Survey indicates that imaging innovation and AI are raising the spirits of UK radiologists

Survey respondents indicated that innovation in medical imaging and the emergence of AI are exciting opportunities in radiology.  Credit: Dr Jon Bell, Consultant Interventional Radiologist at The Christie Hospital.

The pace of innovation in medical imaging and the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) as an enabler for improving radiological diagnosis and reporting are the most exciting opportunities in the UK radiology market at the moment, according to a survey conducted by Canon Medical Systems at UKRCO in July.

Over half of respondents cited innovation and AI as what enthuses them most, followed by imaging improving patient outcomes (27 per cent) and the use of diagnostic imaging replacing invasive clinical procedures (21 per cent).

Senior lecturer and programme director for the medical ultrasound programmes at City, University of London Gill Harrison gave her views as part of the survey: “Innovation in AI is an exciting advancement and could make some ultrasound examinations more automated, for example screening, which would free up sonographer time for more complex cases.  This would certainly complement the development of a National Career Framework for Ultrasound that is work in progress.

“Also, further developments in the innovation area of ultrasound ergonomics will support UK ultrasound practitioners.  Although much work has been done in improving ultrasound systems and probes to enhance ergonomics and transducer grip for sonographers, there is still more to be done in alleviating work-related musculoskeletal disorders.”

Read the full report on page 3 of the September 2018 issue of RAD Magazine.