Improving rural access to radiology services

Speakers at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) in Chicago highlighted the potential for a combination of business acumen and cultural understanding to address challenges faced by radiology practices in rural areas. The nationwide physician shortage, hospital closures, and declining populations have contributed to a grim outlook for radiology in rural regions.

Between 2013 and 2023, over 130 rural hospitals closed, exacerbating the shortage of radiologists. Challenges in recruiting and retaining radiologists in remote areas with potentially lower pay have further impacted the success of radiology practices. In response to these issues, speakers at the RSNA conference discussed innovative approaches.

Dr. Richard Duszak from the University of Mississippi Medical Center shared a success story where wait times for radiology services were reduced to zero to two days. This was achieved by improving patient connectivity, reliable transportation, and effective communication regarding appointments and test results, resulting in decreased no-shows.

Private equity support, encompassing both financial assistance and operational support, was identified as critical for rural specialties, especially during mass casualty events. The case of RP Matrix, Radiology Partners' teleradiology practice, was highlighted. During a tornado disaster in Kentucky in 2021, RP Matrix played a crucial role by utilizing artificial intelligence-enhanced remote diagnostics and providing substantial imaging support.

The broader trend of a physician shortage, particularly in specialty care, has prompted the use of virtual specialty care to overcome patient access challenges. Telemedicine is recognized as essential in addressing the specialist shortage, with a focus on models that provide value to specialists and enable them to scale their expertise.

In summary, the speakers emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach, including cultural sensitivity, improved patient connectivity, and private equity support, to enhance radiology practices in rural areas and mitigate the impact of workforce shortages and hospital closures. The goal is to create a representative workforce that aligns with the diverse healthcare needs of the population, acknowledging that achieving this goal will be a long-term endeavor.