Dear AuntMinnie Member,
CHICAGO - Well, it's Thursday, and you know what that means -- time for most folks to head for the exits as RSNA 2012 draws to a close.
There was good and bad in this year's meeting. On the positive side, the conference theme of putting patients first was a welcome recognition that radiology has begun to emerge -- at least intellectually -- from the reading room to become a more familiar face to patients.
The RSNA's annual theme is usually part of the wallpaper at most conferences, touted by organizers but often ignored by everyone else. This year was different, as everyone from academics to private practice radiologists to vendors realized that medical imaging needs to change if it wants to begin to win back just some of its lost glory.
That may be easier said than done, but radiology may be able to play its old ace in the hole: technology. A plethora of software-based solutions were displayed at this year's meeting that offer hope that imaging specialists can move closer to both patients and referring physicians alike.
On the negative side, this year's show provided no evidence that U.S. radiology is on the comeback trail. Many attendees described conference traffic as listless, and international attendees continue to cast a lengthening shadow, both in the presentation halls and on the exhibit floors.
But it's in clinical content that RSNA excels, and that was no change this year. You'll find a wide variety of articles in our RADCast @ RSNA special section, as well as photos and videos from McCormick Place.
And don't forget to take a look at our WebShow at RSNA 2012, which brings you highlights of the meeting from some of the ones who know it best: AuntMinnie.com's editorial team. Just click here to check it out.
Safe travels, and see you next year in Chicago!
