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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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

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.

Medtronic’s Endurant stent graft system for EVAR linked to strong 10-year outcomes

Researchers examined 10-year follow-up data from approximately 400 EVAR patients, sharing their findings at the 2023 Charing Cross Symposium in London.

Thumbnail

American College of Cardiology shares new HFpEF recommendations as cases continue to rise

HFpEF now accounts for a majority of heart failure cases, highlighting the importance of ensuring both primary care providers and dedicated heart teams know as much about this topic as possible. 

The Medtronic CoreValve Evolute on display at ACC 2022. The valve performed better than surgical valved in terms on structural deterioration. #ACC22

Redo TAVR appears feasible for most patients with supra-annular, self-expanding Evolut valves

Researchers evaluated data from more than 200 patients who underwent redo TAVR, noting that women and patients with a higher BMI faced a higher risk of coronary flow compromise.

Thumbnail

A simple way to help cardiologists communicate with patients

A new JAMA Internal Medicine study suggests that communication coaching for cardiologists may help improve patient interactions by encouraging questions and increasing empathy.

Around the web

GE HealthCare said the price of iodine contrast increased by more than 200% between 2017 to 2023. Will new Chinese tariffs drive costs even higher?

Several key trends were evident at the Radiological Society of North America 2024 meeting, including new CT and MR technology and evolving adoption of artificial intelligence.