DIAGNOSTICS
RADIOLOGY IN THE NEW NORMAL In this interview, Per discusses how the radiology practice has changed during COVID-19 and how innovation can better support radiologists and the healthcare industry in the new normal. He also emphasises on the importance of continued education and collaboration to develop scientific exchange and bolster the capabilities of radiology professionals. Per Edlund, Head of Radiology Commercial Operations Asia Pacific, Bayer Pharmaceuticals Division
How has the practice of radiology changed since COVID-19? Many aspects have certainly changed. For one, many procedures were postponed by healthcare professionals in line with medical guidelines and society recommendations. This can delay critical diagnosis and treatment for severe diseases. In addition, the workflow is impacted, because radiology suites need to have more stringent hygiene protocols in place e.g. for the stratification of patients of different risks, isolation areas set up for suspected
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A SI A N H O S P I T A L & H EA LT HCA R E M A N AGE M E N T
COVID-19 patients etc. Healthcare workers and hospital infrastructure have also been strained due to the pandemic. These trends will lead to a growing demand for digital solutions that help radiology departments be more efficient and meet the increasing workload, while still imaging patients safely and accurately. Safety, speed and accuracy are key needs in radiology – and our highest priority – especially here in the APAC region. Even before COVID-19, the pressure to diagnose many patients speedily and accurately in the APAC
IS S UE - 52, 2021
region was increasing, and now more than ever radiology clinics and departments need to be able to effectively handle a high number of patients. With the Asia-Pacific accounting for half of the world's population and will have nearly 5 billion people by 2050, and given its rapidly ageing population, this will drive a strong demand for diagnosis of chronic conditions like cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Speeding up the diagnostic process helps patients receive treatment earlier; clearer images lead to more accurate diagnosis and better treatment decisions; and maximising hygiene and minimising radiation exposure enhances patient safety. In what ways can innovation in radiology support healthcare professionals to navigate the outbreak better? The radiology industry can support healthcare professionals by putting patients first, and taking the time and effort to understand the common concerns and challenges faced by radiology clinics and professionals,
