Growing contrast concerns accompany rising MRI volumes
More than half of surveyed radiologists worry about MRI contrast availability, yet almost all—99%—wish for contrast agents that would cut current gadolinium concentrations at least in half.
The contrast supplier Bracco Diagnostics made the findings after co-commissioning a survey of 200 radiology professionals, including technologists and administrators, with the physician social media network Sermo.
Noting that 53% of the combined cohort reports MRI exam volume increasing over the past year, the company says respondents registered more collective concern over patient safety (93%), image quality (92%) and contrast availability (87%) than over revenue generation, staff training or environmentally sustainable practices.
Other key findings:
- 75% of radiologists in small hospitals and 35% in larger institutions are concerned about GBCA availability.
- 63% of all responding radiologists believe it is important for contrast agents to be manufactured in the U.S.
- 26% of radiologists have seen GBCA availability issues over the past few years.
- 41% of radiologists report patients becoming more informed about contrast agents in recent years, and 35% had one or more patients expressing concern about health effects of the substances in their bodies.
- 35% are thinking about environmental impact and sustainability more than they did a few years ago.
“By bringing in the perspectives of those on the frontlines through surveys such as this and other means, Bracco continues to hone our focus for where to improve techniques and processes in ways that will maximize clinical benefits,” explains Fulvio Renoldi Bracco, vice chair and CEO of Bracco Imaging in Milan, Italy, of which Bracco Diagnostics is the U.S. subsidiary.
In a Dec. 5 news release publicizing the survey’s findings, Bracco Diagnostics sales and marketing VP Cosimo De Pinto says radiologist worries over contrast supplies informed the company’s decision to collaborate with a competitor, Guerbet, on developing and expanding access to the GBCA Vueway earlier this year.
Survey results announcement here.
Dave P. has worked in journalism, marketing and public relations for more than 30 years, frequently concentrating on hospitals, healthcare technology and Catholic communications. He has also specialized in fundraising communications, ghostwriting for CEOs of local, national and global charities, nonprofits and foundations.