Accessibility emerged as a prominent theme during RSNA 2025
Efforts to expand access were evident across the show floor this week during the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America.
Remote scanning, mobile operations and telehealth logistics were among some of the week’s most talked about topics. Multiple educational sessions and vendor displays offered a glimpse of how the expansion of radiology is set to play out over the coming years, and many attendees expressed optimism for how these things can improve both patient care and providers’ work-life balance.
Advances in mobile imaging operations
One example of the push to improve patient access to imaging could be found in Akumin's booth. On Monday, Akumin—a leading U.S. provider of advanced imaging and radiation oncology services—unveiled its new Axis Drop Trailer (patent-pending).
With the ability to lower completely to the ground, the Drop Trailer is the first of its kind in the mobile imaging market. Its axle system with hydraulics lowers the trailer to the ground in less than two minutes, eliminating the need for stairs and lifts, both of which can be difficult for some patients to navigate. The trailer also boasts a spacious imaging suite, waiting room and separate hot lab for technologists to prepare injections for PET/CT exams.
“The Akumin AXIS line is designed to change how advanced imaging and radiation therapy are delivered,” CEO Henry Howe said in an announcement. “By combining innovative engineering with state-of-the-art imaging technology, we’re helping hospitals meet patient demand faster while maintaining the highest standard of care.”
The expansion of teleradiology services
Elsewhere, CIVIE—an AI-powered radiology technology company—had providers’ needs in mind. CIVIE’s booth showcased its new teleradiology division, RadPod. The AI-enabled platform allows radiologists to work from wherever they want, whenever they choose, and to be paid for their interpretations nearly instantly.
Described as the “Uber of radiology,” RadPod helps address two issues: hospitals’ growing demand for imaging interpretations in the face of radiologist shortages, and readers’ desire for autonomy, flexibility and work-life balance. It enables providers to read on demand while also filling in staffing gaps that create bottlenecks for busy organizations. The solution is available to hospitals, outpatient imaging centers and physician offices and provides either on-site or remote services in all subspecialties 24/7.
"Radiology has reached an unprecedented capacity crisis—more images every year, fewer radiologists to read them, and rising burnout across the industry. CIVIE was built by radiologists and engineers who deeply understand these challenges,” CEO Dhruv Chopra said in a news release. “Our unified ecosystem and RadPod division give radiologists what they've been asking for: intelligent tools that eliminate fragmentation, put them back in control of their workflows, and allow them to deliver faster, more accurate, and more sustainable patient care. This is the future of radiology—one that empowers clinicians rather than replaces them."
Remote imaging operations on the horizon
Remote imaging operations also were top of mind for many at the conference. Remote scanning has drawn both support and criticism throughout the industry, but many imaging leaders agree its emergence is inevitable.
The ability to scan patients remotely would certainly expand access to imaging, but many experts have expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility of these operations due to concerns over safety. With this in mind, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) recently created a new credential aimed at improving MRI workflows. ARRT announced the rollout of the Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance, I.A.(MR)(ARRT) credential in late July. The new credential is intended to address the growing demand for MRI services and could provide an added layer of security to patient safety in remotely operated environments. The exam for the credential will be available in Fall 2026.
“The healthcare landscape is evolving—and so are the needs of imaging teams. As MRI scanning services continue to expand rapidly, the demand for trained on-site assistants has become increasingly urgent,” a July news release from organization noted. “Teleradiology and remote scanning capabilities are reshaping healthcare delivery, making it more essential than ever to have qualified assistants who support patient safety.”
These are just a few of the many examples of imaging leadership seeking to improve accessibility. For more on this and other news from RSNA, see below:
In addition to her background in journalism, Hannah also has patient-facing experience in clinical settings, having spent more than 12 years working as a registered rad tech. She began covering the medical imaging industry for Innovate Healthcare in 2021.