Global AI and Quality Care Discussed by ACR Leaders at World Health Expo

At the recent World Health Expo in Dubai, leaders from the American College of Radiology (ACR) highlighted the importance of global outreach in radiology through new ACR International programs. ACR CEO Dana H. Smetherman, MD, MPH, MBA, FACR, and Vice Chair of the ACR Board of Chancellors, Christoph Wald, MD, PhD, MBA, FACR, delivered presentations emphasizing the role of ACR in supporting both radiology professionals and patients worldwide.

During the sessions held on February 10, Dr. Wald underscored the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) within radiology and ACR's pivotal role in steering the ethical and effective implementation of AI technologies. Wald outlined the offerings of the ACR Data Science Institute, including initiatives such as the Define-AI Directory, AI-LAB, AI Central, ARCH-AI quality recognition, and the Assess-AI registry. These programs are designed to support the education, validation, ethics, and post-deployment monitoring of imaging AI. In 2025, ACR further bolstered its international outreach by introducing the Informatics International membership and the international ARCH-AI recognition program.

Dr. Smetherman's presentation focused on ACR’s century-long dedication to ensuring quality and safety in radiology. She discussed ACR's implementation of early practice parameters, technical standards, and accreditation processes, alongside contemporary data-driven initiatives aimed at enhancing clinical decision support and benchmarking. In 2024, the ACR International Recognition Program was launched to acknowledge radiology facilities worldwide that exemplify high-quality imaging and patient-centered care.

These discussions at the World Health Expo emphasized the ACR's commitment to not only advancing radiological practices but also to encouraging the safe adoption of AI across global health systems, ensuring that both healthcare professionals and patients benefit from technological advancements.