Better is possible: the fruits of a joint programme in cardiovascular imaging shared by radiologists and cardiologists
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Better is possible. It does not take genius. It takes diligence. It takes ingenuity. And above all, it takes a willingness to try. Atul Guwande, MD Historically, cardiovascular imaging programmes have been organized around modalities [echocardiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear cardiology, and vascular imaging] and divided between radiology and cardiology departments. While this structure reflects the technical expertise required to perform and interpret these advanced imaging techniques, it has also created silos that hinder the ability to deliver integrated, patient-centred care. This fragmented approach often results in disjointed workflows, limited interdisciplinary engagement, and missed opportunities for collaboration between radiologists and cardiologists and imagers and clinicians. The delineation of responsibilities between cardiology and radiology in cardiovascular imaging has further contributed to these challenges. Radiologists bring expertise in imaging techniques and cardiac and cross-sectional anatomy, while cardiologists possess in-depth knowledge of cardiac physiology and pathophysiology. However, the lack of formalized collaboration between these disciplines often leaves multimodality imaging studies interpreted in isolation, with little integration into a comprehensive clinical context. For patients, this traditional structure can translate into delays, inefficiencies, and a sense that their care is secondary to departmental organization.
Source: European Heart Journal
Author: Marcelo F Di Carli
Institutions: Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard University
Language: English
Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4408724830