Training and Service Provision in Cardiovascular CT: International Challenges and Solutions

Abstract

Purpose of review: This manuscript identifies international challenges in cardiovascular CT that may prevent it from becoming a mainstream cardiovascular investigation. It offers potential solutions and a vision to overcome these barriers.

Recent findings: The acceptance of cardiovascular CT as a mainstream investigation now mandates a root and branch review of how we deliver a technology that is no longer emerging but recommended for mainstream clinical practice. The main challenges include investment in equipment and personnel and a substantial uplift in educational and training opportunities available. This requires revision of existing structures for training and accreditation and a broadening of these opportunities to include radiographers/technologists. The evidence for cardiovascular CT is overwhelming; the same energy and investment witnessed in driving the evidence base for this technology is now required in education and training. Failure to do so risks undermining the academic investment made over the last decade.

Keywords: Accreditation; Cardiac imaging; Cardiovascular CT; Cardiovascular risk; Service delivery; Training.