By: Olga R Brook, MD

The Intersociety Summer Conference 2023 took place at the beginning of August in San Diego, where I was privileged to represent SABI, was a forum of 31 radiology societies to discuss “wicked problems” and strategic solutions.

The major concern was the shortage of radiologists, technologists, and nurses. Possible solutions included increasing the number of residency spots, integrating APPs into the workforce, increasing the number of IMGs, and using AI to improve workflow efficiency.

A standout presentation showcased a radiologist workflow with six monitors and mice with the remarkable ability to handle up to 600 cases in a single shift – each case reviewed in a mere 45 seconds. The presentation highlighted the importance of well-prepared assistants who can efficiently pull up prior studies, gather clinical information, and communicate with referring physicians. While this model's extreme nature is likely not universally applicable, the concept provides valuable insights into optimizing workflows during staff shortages.

Another topic of discussion was the changing nature of radiology education. The upcoming introduction of oral board exams in 2028 will require a shift from traditional multiple-choice questions to more traditional case-based interpretation discussions.

The conference also highlighted the importance of well-being and a positive work environment in preventing burnout and moral injury. Dr. Chen presented work from UCLA using the strategy of "listen, sort, and empower" to foster faculty retention. The ACR is forming coalitions with other medical specialties to protect reimbursements and promote the interests of radiology professionals.

The conference concluded with a discussion of the future of radiology, including the potential for AI to revolutionize the field.

The Society for Advanced Body Imaging is now accepting nominations for 2023 Fellow Members.

The requirements for Fellow Membership can be found below - please read them carefully before submitting the application.

All materials must be received by Friday, September 23, 2022. Nominations will not be accepted after that date.

Guidelines and Application 

We are pleased to announce that registration is now open for the Society for Advanced Body Imaging Annual Meeting taking place October 7-11, 2023 in Dallas, TX.

Join us for an engaging schedule held at the Fairmont Hotel in Downtown Dallas, Texas that will highlight the latest in advanced body imaging techniques, evolving industry technologies, and best practices for clinical care. This year, the theme is Innovation Toward Professional, Financial, and Environmental Sustainability. Use the link below to complete your registration.

SABI Member at Large Board Position

The board of directors of SABI is now accepting nominations for the position of Member-at-Large of the Society for Advanced Body Imaging (SABI) to begin at the 2023 annual meeting. The Member-at-Large provides a voice for the active members of the society and directly oversees the Early Career Committee. 

You may submit nominations until Friday, August 4, 2023 using the following link: 

Member At Large Board Nomination Form  

Board of Directors: Secretary Position

The board of directors of SABI is now accepting nominations for the position of Secretary of the Society for Advanced Body Imaging (SABI) to begin at the 2023 annual meeting. The Secretary is responsible for the society upholding its bylaws, is responsible for the structure of all SABI committees, and directly oversees the Bylaws and the Fellow Nominating Committees. 

The Secretary must be a Fellow of the society and remain in good standing.  The term of the Secretary is for 3 years, followed in succession by elevation to vice president, president-elect and then president of the society, as described in the bylaws. 

You may submit nominations until Friday, August 4, 2023 using the link below:

Secretary Nomination Form

Dear colleagues,

I had the privilege of attending the 11th annual meeting of the Academy for Radiology and Biomedical Imaging Research in Washington, D.C as a representative of SABI and a member of the Council of Early Career Investigators in Imaging (CECI²) Class of 2022. This highly anticipated event brought together a diverse group of participants, including academics, industry professionals, society leaders, patient advocates, and government representatives. Featured activities were the Medical Imaging Technology Showcase, Capitol Hill Advocacy Day, and Research Roundtable Discussion.

Numerous advances in artificial intelligence, CT, MRI, PET, cancer imaging, and interventional radiology were on display at the meeting; I proudly showcased our innovative approach to opportunistically screen for cardiomegaly on CT. Our algorithm automates measurement of the cardiothoracic ratio, enabling identification of cardiomegaly, which is associated with coronary events, heart failure, valvular disorders, arrhythmias, and other cardiac abnormalities. In collaborating with cardiologists, we ensure seamless care coordination and timely follow-up evaluations for these patients. This solution has enormous potential to alleviate the healthcare burden of late-stage cardiovascular disease.

A note about the CECI² of the Academy for Radiology and Biomedical Imaging Research; it was established with the aim of showcasing the work of early-career researchers, creating invaluable program content tailored to their needs, and involving them in research advocacy initiatives.  The Academy's CECI² plays a pivotal role in advocating for medical imaging research during Capitol Hill visits and engaging with congressional offices to emphasize the importance of sustained funding for the NIH. This year, the Level-2 programming for CECI² members included a visit to the NIH's intramural research program, where we gained insights into interventional radiology, molecular imaging research, and imaging biomarkers.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity and wish to thank the entire SABI community as my sponsor. 

Asser Abou Elkassem