AI in radiology isn’t just about technology – it’s about people. In a recent episode of “Medical Imaging Matters”, hosted by AHRA, Jean Jose, DO, Associate Vice Chair of Radiology from the University of Miami Health System, shared invaluable insights on how AI adoption isn’t just about algorithms and automation but also about education, human involvement and securing organizational buy-in.
One of the biggest misconceptions about AI in radiology is that it replaces physicians. Dr. Jose emphasized that AI isn’t a substitute for radiologists or technologists but rather an augmentation tool that enhances their roles. However, for AI to be successful, there must be a clear and ongoing effort to educate all stakeholders.
From the outset, securing buy-in from administrators and frontline staff requires transparent communication. The University of Miami Health System tackled this by developing a common language around AI, categorizing AI-generated findings based on their criticality and the necessary workflows to support them. By doing so, they created a structured approach to implementation, ensuring that AI insights are actionable and beneficial across multiple teams.
While AI can flag critical findings, it’s human intervention that makes AI actionable. The University of Miami Health System has developed a unique workflow where AI notifies technologists, nurses and other frontline staff to act immediately on flagged cases. For instance, their implementation of Aidoc’s pneumothorax algorithm sends real-time alerts to technologists, who then initiate a rapid response workflow, engaging radiologists and referring physicians in the process.
Dr. Jose described how this approach not only expedites care but also transforms the way technologists and nurses interact with patients.
“Instead of having that hesitation of ‘AI is going to add more work for me,’ our technologists and nurses have found that AI allows them to be more engaged in patient care. They feel empowered by these expanded roles.”
The implementation of AI in radiology isn’t just a technological decision; it’s a strategic one that requires institutional buy-in. Dr. Jose and his team recognized that administrators need to see AI’s value in terms of patient outcomes, workflow efficiency and financial viability. Instead of focusing on the cost of AI, they emphasized the impact AI has on patient safety, reduced length of stay and improved care coordination.
Dr. Jose noted that focusing on real-world benefits, such as reducing emergency room observation times or expediting oncological patient care, helped them secure leadership support.
“It’s not just about getting AI approval; it’s about understanding the institution’s needs and demonstrating how AI can help meet them. The conversation isn’t about technology. It’s about patient care.”
As AI adoption continues to grow, the key to success lies in how well institutions integrate AI into human workflows. The University of Miami Health System’s approach demonstrates that AI isn’t just about algorithms but also education, structured communication and, most importantly, human involvement.
By fostering an environment where AI empowers rather than replaces, and by securing buy-in through demonstrated value, radiology departments can successfully implement AI-driven workflows that enhance both patient care and provider satisfaction.
Watch the full discussion with Dr. Jean Jose in the video below to see how AI and human intervention are reshaping patient care at the University of Miami Health System.
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