Diagnostic imaging is more critical than ever to millions of clinical decisions made every day in this country. Even so, our clinical colleagues, medical center administrators, payors and the general public often seem to miss this point. They take for granted that radiologists will always be there when needed, that we are doing fine and that their support can be focused elsewhere.

Philip O. Alderson, M.D.

Lack of visibility and appreciation for radiology exists despite strong efforts by RSNA, the American College of Radiology, American Roentgen Ray Society and other organizations to publicize the benefits and contributions of our discipline. RSNA has worked with ACR to create the RadiologyInfo.org Web site and also has a Public Information Committee (PIC) and Public Information Advisers Network (PIAN). RSNA staff and physician members of the PIC and much larger PIAN work year-round to put information about radiology into broadcast and print media. Physician members of the PIAN regularly make themselves available for media inquiries germane to their expertise.

It’s time for each of us to do whatever we can in our local communities to publicize the many benefits of high-quality radiology. This is particularly important in 2008, as a new leader will capture the White House. That leader and her or his party will undoubtedly focus on healthcare as one of this country's most important domestic issues. It's time for us to get more engaged with the public and with the political process so that radiologists will be treated fairly in the coming healthcare realignment. It’s time to speak out for radiology.