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FDA, CMS unveil rapid Medicare coverage pathway for critical medical devices

Prior to the new “RAPID” program announced on Thursday, it could take a year or more for Breakthrough-designated medical devices to earn approval for Medicare coverage. Now, regulators say that timeline could be reduced to as little as two months.

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure

First bedside procedure of its kind performed by traveling clinicians on premature infant

The 22-week-old patient was successfully treated by a traveling cardiologist—all without being transported to the cath lab.

Harmony Reynolds, MD, FACC, director of the cardiovascular clinical research center at NYU Langone Health, presented a study at the American College of Cardiology (ACC) 2026 meeting using coronary optical coherence tomography (OCT) and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine sex differences in underlying causes of myocardial infarction with no obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA).

Researchers use multi-modality imaging to learn more about MINOCA

The combination of OCT and MRI can help provide an improved sense of clarity when managing MINOCA patients, according to new data presented at ACC.26 in New Orleans.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted market clearance for Biotronik's Acticor Sky and Rivacor Sky implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) and cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D) systems. The new technology will be launches at the Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) annual meeting this week. #HRS2026

FDA approves 2 implantable heart devices from Biotronik

These devices were built to provide better patient data and improve clinician workflows. They will be on display at Heart Rhythm 2026 in Chicago.

Trump administration moves to speed up Medicare coverage for breakthrough cardiology devices

CMS and the FDA say the goal is to improve patient access to medical devices that address an unmet need.

court brain scan legal gavel lawsuit malpractice judge

New case law could put radiologists on hook for imaging-order appropriateness

“Radiologists should exercise caution when implementing...protocoling workﬂows that bypass independent radiologist review," one expert writes in the American Journal of Roentgenology.

Interventional radiologists launch new chain of standalone outpatient IR centers

Co-founders Jonathan Steinberger, MD, and Gabriel Lipshutz, MD, are starting Elmnt IR with an initial location in Los Angeles and more to follow.

healthcare value value-based care money dollar

Radiologists No. 1 among physician specialists with $5M or more in net worth: Medscape

About 39% of rads polled by the news website said they fall in this income bracket, placing the profession in a tie with orthopedists.

Interview with Alan Matsumoto, chair of American College of Radiology (ACR) Board, says Medicare physician payments are not sustainable, forcing many practices to consolidate with health systems or private equity owned companies.

ACR board chair discusses radiology's 'culture clash' between 'suits and white coats'

Alan Matsumoto, MD, explains the pros and cons of consolidation under hospital system and private equity ownership.

Key causes of poor breast imaging quality and how 1 health system addresses them

Variable technologist training and skill levels, inconsistent onboarding and training, “constant” turnover, and a high number of unfilled positions all have contributed.

Radiologists, other docs voice concern over Medicare proposal to slash pay due to ‘efficiencies’

"Cutting payment for these lifesaving exams is not helpful. We look forward to working with regulators and those in Congress to arrive at more sensible imaging reimbursement policies," an ACR leader says.

Radiology provider Akumin continues C-suite shakeup with new CFO, other execs

In 2025 so far, the Plantation, Florida, imaging provider has changed its CEO and CFO while also creating a new CMO role filled by an outside radiologist.

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FDA, CMS unveil rapid Medicare coverage pathway for critical medical devices