Why should radiologists be interested in technology assessment and outcomes research?

Why should radiologists be interested in technology assessment and outcomes research? The primary answer relates to optimizing the use of imaging examinations in daily practice such that this results in the most effective, efficient, and highest quality patient care possible. In formal outcomes research, this is measured in terms of quality of life and perceptions of patients' well-being. Thus, the primary answer is that radiologists need to become better informed and knowledgeable about research methods and be able to critically review the results in the literature of technology assessment and outcomes research regarding the use of imaging examinations. This will enable radiologists to become more effective consultants for their referring physician colleagues by optimizing the use of imaging examinations to affect patient outcomes. Radiologists also will be more effective participants in guidelines task force groups.