Abstract
Interventional radiology (IR) has had immense growth in importance and value over
the last several decades from its founding in the mid-20th century. IR procedures
have been widely adopted and an era of IR clinical expertise is upon us. Despite this,
there is a perception that IR is simply an imaging study to be ordered and that IR
physicians are expendable. This article attempts to explore that. Questionnaires were
sent to other specialties and administrators asking key questions regarding the value
of IR as a specialty, both for procedural and consultative expertise as well as their
thoughts on the future of IR. Answers varied, but consistent opinions were observed
that IR is extremely valuable, both procedurally and consultatively, and that expansion
of IR services is likely. IR is extremely valuable given its impact on healthcare
(lessening morbidity, decreasing length of stay, improving cost) and although there
is some misperception of this value, other specialties and administrators understand
it well. Newer generations of IR physicians are poised to become even more impactful
if they continue to expand their clinical presence.
Keywords
interventional radiology - value - economic impact
