Quality

The focus of quality improvement in healthcare is to bolster performance and processes related to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Leaders in this space also ensure the proper selection of imaging exams and procedures, and monitor the safety of services, among other duties. Reimbursement programs such as the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) utilize financial incentives to improve quality. This also includes setting and maintaining care quality initiatives, such as the requirements set by the Joint Commission.

The imaging iodine contrast shortage is delaying procedures and causing rationing at hospitals. impact is it having on hospitals and the tough decisions that are being made to triage patients to determine if they will get a contrast CT scan or an interventional or surgical procedure requiring contrast. Photo by Dave Fornell

Higher radiation doses don't always improve CT image quality

Dose reduction protocols vary across scanners and organizations. This can create inconsistencies in both image quality and measuring patients’ total radiation exposure. 

PCI interventional cardiology

‘Failure to rescue’ after PCI: 20% of patients die when complications occur

Major complications are rare during percutaneous coronary intervention. When they do occur, however, the in-hospital mortality rate is relatively high. 

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LG rolls out new monitors targeted at mammography reads

The new monitor, which was recently approved by the FDA, is intended to improve the process of reading breast MRIs, mammograms and DBT exams.

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Radiology experts recommend ‘expenditure mapping’ as path to addressing rising imaging costs

UNC Health undertook this exercise with a focus on pediatric diagnostics, according to a study published in Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology.  

cardiologist doctor physician patient black diverse hypertension

The 25 top US hospitals for diabetes care

U.S. News and World Report reviewed 660 hospitals, ranking them based on data related to treating diabetes and endocrinology. 

artificial intelligence in cardiology

Tech companies team up to help cardiologists reach high-risk heart patients

Guidehealth and Story Health are joining forces to put AI-powered technology in the hands of heart teams. 

A TAVR procedure being performed at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago. These structural heart procedures require a team approach.

Temporary pacemakers after TAVR could reduce need for permanent implants

Care teams are always looking for new ways to limit the use of permanent pacemakers after TAVR. Could starting patients off with temporary devices be an answer? 

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Assistive robot could increase mammogram accessibility to more people with disabilities

The robot is expected to be operational and safety checked within the next three years.