Over the past 30-plus years, imaging has grown to become a vital part of the neurological exam. The AAN Professional Association (Academy) has developed a detailed and well-regarded collection of training and practice guidelines covering neuroimaging curriculum and protocols, and has partnered with other organizations to promote higher standards in accreditation and certification. In addition, many of our neuroimagers are widely recognized as experts within their field. Thanks to these tools and resources, our members are able to diagnose and treat a wider range of conditions faster and more effectively.
Even as neurologists build upon their established ability to improve patient care through the use of new imaging modalities, there is growing debate about the appropriate use of such technologies. Questions of accreditation and certification, reading privileges and reimbursement, prior authorization, and ownership of equipment further cloud the policy picture. Neurologists must play a central role in answering these questions to ensure their involvement in the future development of neuroimaging.
The Academy supports the rights of its members to use their full range of training for the benefit of their patients, and encourages public and private policymakers to act judiciously when setting the boundaries and standards of imaging care. Click here to view the Academy's position statement.
The Academy has developed an advocacy toolkit (to the right) to help you advocate on this important issue.