Artificial intelligence in diagnostic imaging: impact on the radiography profession

Abstract

The arrival of artificially intelligent systems into the domain of medical imaging has focused attention and sparked much debate on the role and responsibilities of the radiologist. However, discussion about the impact of such technology on the radiographer role is lacking. This paper discusses the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the radiography profession by assessing current workflow and cross-mapping potential areas of AI automation such as procedure planning, image acquisition and processing. We also highlight the opportunities that AI brings including enhancing patient-facing care, increased cross-modality education and working, increased technological expertise and expansion of radiographer responsibility into AI-supported image reporting and auditing roles.