Kareem Bohsali, MD
More and more, key radiological services like diagnostic imaging and interventional radiology are considered mandatory elements in high-quality medical care. Expressing his thoughts on the industry now and moving forward is Diagnostic Radiology and Vascular and Interventional Radiology subspecialist, Kareem I. Bohsali, MD.
Q: What inspired you to go into Radiology?
I loved anatomy and the many procedures involved in interventional radiology. I valued being able to treat every single patient that came in to the hospital and clinic. Now, years later, I continue to find it very rewarding.
Q: What do you find most challenging in this field for you, specifically today?
The most challenging thing for radiology today is maintaining the highest quality of care with ever-in-creasing imaging volumes. As referring physicians become more dependent on imaging studies to help them treat patients, our workload has grown exponentially.
Q: Are there new technologies you are using now or see on the horizon that you find especially fascinating or exciting?
While I never see AI replacing radiologists, at least not in my lifetime, I do see it helping minimize errors, which makes it invaluable.
Q: What are you hoping to see in the future of the industry?
I see the future of interventional radiology continuing to grow with minimally-invasive procedures and quick patient recovery. As we see more IR treatments replace open surgery, patients will have safer outcomes with far less downtime.
Q: What funny or odd question do you often get from patients?
One question we get asked is a request for a "wet read" on a study. It’s funny because we haven't used film in my entire career. Also, the reading rooms where we study images don't have to be dark. That is a misconception I think people get from TV.
Q: Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience in this field?
I think it is extremely important that radiologists interact face-to-face with patients and physicians. It’s not necessarily expected, but whenever possible, I make sure to speak to patients and referring doctors personally. After all, we are all part of a collaborative effort to help patients get better.
