The American College of Radiology (ACR) announced this week that its National Radiology Data Registry (NRDR) has been renewed as a Qualified Clinical Data Registry by CMS. This renewal means that providers can continue to use the NRDR to meet MIPS reporting requirements throughout 2018.

The 2.3-percent tax on the sale of medical devices returned Jan. 1 after being suspended for two years, but the Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) is now urging Congress to fully repeal the tax by Jan. 29, the day manufacturers are required to resume making payments.

The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) announced Monday, Dec. 18, that the ASRT Foundation has awarded a research grant of nearly $10,000 to Tanya M. Custer, MS, to study the role of e-modules—computer-based educational tools that typically last 10-15 minutes—in imaging education.

The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) has come out supporting new legislation that would delay the medical device tax for five years. The bill, HR 4716, was introduced by Rep. Erik Paulsen, R-Minnesota and Rep. Jackie Walorski, R-Indiana.

At RSNA 2017 in Chicago, artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning technologies were everywhere. Attendees rushed to learn as much as possible about AI, countless educational sessions touched on the topic and exhibitors made sure to mention it in their booths as much as possible. I wouldn’t quite say AI took over the show like some have suggested, but it did make quite an impression on everyone walking through the doors of McCormick Place.

Management skills within healthcare, specifically in radiology, are critical to success. More important than management, however, is leadership, as it means always doing the right thing rather than just doing things correctly.

Mentor/mentee relationships are crucial in any healthcare specialty, and radiology is no exception. At RSNA 2017 in Chicago, Alexander Norbash, MD, shared some lessons he has learned over the years while working to help develop strong relationships between mentors and mentees.

Wednesday, Nov. 29, at RSNA 2017 in Chicago, Vijay M. Rao, MD, was officially named RSNA’s newest president. She had served as president-elect for the last year.