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.

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Comprehensive heart teams are rewriting the rules of patient care

Multidisciplinary heart teams are growing more and more popular among hospitals and health systems all over the world. What started as a way to select TAVR patients has become something much more important. 

A transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedure being performed at Intermountain Healthcare. Image from Intermountain Healthcare

TAVR and PAD: What cardiologists need to know

TAVR patients presenting with peripheral artery disease face significantly higher in-hospital risks, according to a new study published in Current Problems in Cardiology

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More than a feeling? Social isolation, loneliness linked to a higher heart failure risk

A new study published in JACC: Heart Failure offers more evidence that a patient's feelings can strongly influence their risk of poor cardiovascular health. 

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Coronary IVL now recommended at all cath labs, even those without surgical backup

The latest SCAI guidance on the safety of PCI procedures included a key change that could expand coronary IVL utilization throughout the United States. 

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Why are post-TAVR stroke rates higher at comprehensive stroke centers?

One of the more likely reasons is simple: specialty centers have better tools for identifying signs of stroke.

Interventional cardiologists can safely perform PCI without on-site surgical backup

The finding comes from a new expert consensus statement published by the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions. Several industry societies, including the ACC and AHA, have endorsed the document. 

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Cardiologists use video-based AI model to ID coronary artery disease

A team of specialists out of Cedars-Sinai developed the deep learning model using TTEs from nearly 3,000 patients.

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AI in cardiology: A step-by-step guide to developing high-quality algorithms

Overwhelmed or confused by AI and machine learning technology? A new analysis in European Heart Journal hopes to provide some clarity. 

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.