Rebecca Seidel, MD, and Kirang Patel, MD, Chair and Vice-Chair of the American College of Radiology® (ACR®) Bulletin Editorial Advisory Group, contributed this piece.
The United States healthcare system produces nearly 10% of America’s greenhouse gas emissions, and research shows that radiology departments are likely a significant contributor. We have an opportunity and responsibility to positively impact the environmental footprint made by our healthcare system and contribute to a sustainable future for all.
To minimize our carbon footprint and optimize resources, the ACR Bulletin joined many organizations in August 2023 to shift to a digital-forward format. Being fully digital offers advantages by aiding the dissemination of information and propelling the field of radiology into an era of efficiency and accessibility.
With traditional printed magazines/journals like the Bulletin, there's often a considerable lag between information dissemination and publication which slowed down the integration of new information to our audience and readers. A digital platform eliminates this delay, enabling rapid publication and dissemination of knowledge and information to our ACR and radiology community. Being fully digital also helps enhance our accessibility for a global audience, ensuring that our information is not confined to specific geographic regions or institutions and instead fosters collaboration and a broader understanding of material and content.
It’s an exciting time to embrace our new digital era. Check out ACR resources on sustainability in radiology and view our November 2023 issue.
Please share your thoughts in the comments section below, and join the discussion on Engage (login required).