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.

New research presented at the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery examined the lack of diversity seen among this important specialty. 

Exploring diversity, compensation among academic cardiothoracic surgeons

New research presented at the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery examined the lack of diversity seen in this important specialty. 

May 8, 2023
AI artificial intelligence stethoscope doctor

ChatGPT shows ‘remarkable ability’ to process thoracic surgery data, could help with training and patient care

A research lab led by a veteran cardiothoracic surgeon found that ChatGPT—particularly the GPT-4 model—could 'potentially revolutionize' training in the years ahead. 

May 5, 2023
Banner ASC in Sun City, Arizona.

Observation times following renal biopsies can be significantly reduced, according to new research

New findings indicate that monitoring times following renal mass biopsy could be revisited in many cases without posing risks to patients.

May 4, 2023
CT iodine contrast Omnipaq bolus next to a scanner at Central DuPage Hospital.

New data suggest clinicians should think twice before foregoing contrast-enhanced imaging

The new data highlight a potential pitfall of unenhanced CT scans on patients presenting to emergency departments with acute pain—an inaccurate workup.

May 4, 2023
Cardiologists employed by a hospital appear to be more likely to pursue cardiac catheterization or angioplasty than independent cardiologists. female physician male

Fewer stress tests, more high-risk procedures: How working at a hospital influences cardiologists

Cardiologists employed by a hospital appear to be more likely to pursue cardiac catheterization or angioplasty than independent cardiologists.

May 4, 2023
A TAVR procedure being performed at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago.

Is TAVR too common among younger, low-risk patients? 2 experts share their concerns

Two experienced TAVR specialists—Sachin Goel, MD, and Michael Reardon, MD—examined the growing trend of younger, low-risk patients being recommended for TAVR over SAVR.

May 2, 2023
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How 'mindlessly' following AI guidance impacts radiologist performance

Radiologists interpreting screening mammograms may be especially susceptible to falling victim to automation bias, as these exams are repetitive in nature.

May 2, 2023
The FDA has cleared tirzepatide (Mounjaro) from Eli Lilly, a once-weekly injectable dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist (GLP-1) for improving glycemic control among adults with type 2 diabetes.

Eli Lilly targets FDA approval for weight loss medication

Tirzepatide, sold under the name Mounjaro, is among a handful of drugs with big buzz for their weight loss results, and approval for obesity could be a huge revenue source for Eli Lilly in the future.

April 28, 2023