Healthcare Tech: How Radiology is Impacting Modern Medicine

Medicine ⯀  

Modern medicine helps to prevent illness and increase the quality of life for everyone. Radiology has helped to advance the quality of care and diagnostic accuracy that doctors are able to offer. 

Radiological medical imaging offers precise information about the human body in a relatively safe and non-invasive manner. Also, as the rising cost of healthcare continues to be a concern, it offers a quick and effective way for radiology workers to obtain important information about a patient.

Radiology - On the Cutting Edge of Technology

The very first radiological imaging method that was invented was the use of x-rays to obtain images of bones and internal bodily systems. However, as those who are pursuing a modern radiologic degree know, today's field of imaging offers many more highly advanced technologies for capturing images of the human body. These sophisticated imaging technologies can help to detect diseases and disorders earlier than many other testing methods, allowing patients to receive crucial and timely treatment. Modern imaging methods include:

• Computed tomography, also known as CT or CAT scans
• Fluoroscopy, commonly used for gastrointestinal imaging
• Magnetic resonance imaging, also known as MRI
• Positron emission technology, called a PET scan
• Ultrasound
• Mammography
• Nuclear medicine imagery, commonly used for bone or thyroid scans

Every method of radiology imaging has distinct advantages in relation to both the type of image needed as well as the bodily system that is to be assessed. Radiologists, who are doctors that specialize in this type of imaging, are constantly learning methods in which these powerful tools can be used to help increase the standard of accuracy in medical care.

Radiology - Integral to the Practice of Modern Medicine

Medicine must address a constantly changing scope of disease and illness. America's healthcare providers must adapt to growing challenges, such as:

• Aging populations
• Obesity related diseases
• Increased cancer rates

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Without the accuracy and speed with which radiologic imaging is available, many patients could possibly delay care or miss an important diagnosis. Radiology services can be mobilized, helping under-served communities access the healthcare they need.

Radiology's Future in Medicine

Doctors strive to provide the best care while reducing the risk of harm. Radiology will continue to grow and advance as the field offers more opportunity for diagnostic precision. Modern medicine will continue to rely on radiology workers to adapt and change with the ways that healthcare will be administered as technology advances to even higher levels of complexity.

By  Lizzie Weakley

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About the Author - Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. She went to college at The Ohio State University where she studied communications. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and long walks in the park with her 3-year-old husky Snowball. If you are looking at getting a STEM related education, Lizzie suggests that you consider an electrical engineering master’s degree from the University of Ohio.