C. Matthew Hawkins, MD, Chair of the Communications Committee of the American College of Radiology® (ACR®) Commission on Membership and Communications, and Natasha Monga, MD, Member of the ACR Council Steering Committee and College Nominating Committee, contributed this piece.
In February 2022, the ACR announced a new strategic plan, “Empowering the Radiologist of the Future.” How will we achieve the plan’s ambitious and bold objective for the ACR to be indispensable to all radiology professionals, both now and in the future? Read on and please join us for a virtual town hall October 11.
As you see on this interactive map, we’ve identified 12 objectives to serve as guideposts along the ACR journey over the next three to five years. To accelerate progress on some of these objectives, we’ve identified three time-limited initiatives. When these three are complete, we will launch the next wave. Let’s look at each initiative:
- Convener of Conversations – As the voice of more than 42,000 members, the ACR is at its strongest when we first listen to and understand diverse input and multiple viewpoints. By focusing on multidirectional conversations on high interest topics, the ACR can be a unified advocate for our profession. We’re examining how members and the ACR communicate with each other, to prioritize what is working and create new opportunities that foster open, civil dialogue that is respectful, honest and transparent.
- Organization of Opportunity – Our volunteers power the ACR. This initiative seeks to invest in the talent of our volunteers by matching opportunities to member interests and expertise and providing opportunities to share knowledge and make an impact. Young members are the future of the organization and a key audience. This team is currently planning upcoming focus groups, so stay tuned for opportunities to get involved with this initiative.
- Hub of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Emerging Technology Assessment and Advocacy – ACR members are leaders in information-centric medicine. This initiative focuses on expanding awareness, knowledge and use of AI and innovative technologies so that ACR members remain at the forefront of the evolving clinical care landscape. This initiative includes research on current knowledge and use of AI, and highlights education on safe implementation, appropriate use and economics of AI and similar emerging technologies.
The initiative model gives the ACR the ability to be nimble, responsive and strategic within the framework of the plan, while continuing to support the ACR’s ongoing efforts in advocacy and economics. The ACR continues to be the voice of our members in ensuring a robust future for radiology by demonstrating value and championing the profession.
Eager to learn more? Hear from radiology leaders in a series of short videos that were just added to acr.org/strategicplan. We also invite you to join us on Tuesday, October 11 at 8pm ET for a virtual Town Hall where we’ll share even more details and answer your questions. See you then!
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