Radiologists can take steps toward environmental sustainability

Radiology departments can take proactive steps to promote environmental sustainability, according to an article published April 23 in Radiology. A team led by Kate Hanneman, MD, of the University of Toronto in Ontario, Canada, proposed ways that departments can strategize to promote planetary health beyond turning imaging machines off when not in use. These include forming sustainability teams, opting for low-energy imaging tests when possible, and working with imaging vendors, among others. “There are other opportunities to improve environmental sustainability that are beyond energy,” Hanneman told AuntMinnie.com. “It’s important to also think about minimizing waste and not using single-use supplies. I encourage everyone to think beyond just saving energy.” While radiology overall has explored ways to implement and maintain sustainable practices, many practices struggle in this area. Through the production and use of medical imaging equipment and supplies, radiology is estimated to generate up to 1% of overall greenhouse gas emissions, the researchers highlighted. Hanneman said that departments may struggle with deciding on what actions to take in promoting sustainability, including becoming overwhelmed with finding where to start. The researchers described how coordinated approaches and concrete actions can help combat and adapt to climate change. They highlighted that these approaches could improve the health of their communities and patients. Examples of...
Source: AuntMinnie.com Headlines - Category: Radiology Authors: Tags: Practice Management Source Type: news