Radiology Reimagined: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Sonography

Artificial Intelligence, Sonography, Outcomes

Tony Coles is the CEO of the Australasian Sonographers Association (ASA). He previously served as the Director of Audiology Australia and Chairperson of the Australian Association of Gerontology, starting his career at the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care.

In this episode, Tony discusses ASA's role in advancing the sonography profession and its future direction. He addresses challenges such as achieving statutory regulation for sonographers, workforce shortages, and remuneration structures that can affect the quality of care. He emphasizes the importance of advocacy and collaboration among professionals to navigate these challenges effectively.

Tony highlights the significant role of artificial intelligence (AI) in sonography, noting that while AI can assist in interpreting scans, the human touch remains essential in patient care. He stresses the need for ongoing research, including ASA's studies on scan times, to identify solutions that improve practice efficiency without compromising quality.

Additionally, Tony shares insights on the importance of grassroots involvement and passion within ASA, reflecting the organization's commitment to innovation and member satisfaction. He advocates for raising professional standards in sonography and ensuring that practitioners maintain up-to-date skills through specialization and continuous professional development.

The conversation also covers the need for greater public awareness of the sonography profession and its critical impact on patient outcomes. By promoting the value of sonography, ASA aims to elevate the profession, enhance educational opportunities, and ultimately improve healthcare delivery across the board.