AI should assist rather than replace radiologists, AIIMS official says

Artificial intelligence should support radiologists rather than replace them, the executive director of AIIMS-Mangalagiri, Ahanthem Santa Singh, said at a conference in Vijayawada on Saturday. Singh was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the 12th annual State conference of the Andhra Pradesh Indian Radiological and Imaging Association. The event began on September 25 and will continue until September 27 at AIIMS-Mangalagiri.

He said AI had a growing role in radiology and should function as a companion to specialists. According to the report, its role should include supporting clinical decision-making and helping improve patient care. More than 800 radiologists and imaging professionals from across India are attending the conference.

The programme includes scientific sessions, lectures, panel discussions and academic presentations on diagnostic and interventional radiology, artificial intelligence and emerging imaging technologies. Prudhvinatha Reddy, additional professor and head of the Department of Radio-Diagnosis at AIIMS-Mangalagiri, received a gold medal from AP IRIA for academic excellence and contribution to radiology. Reddy said more conferences should be organised, particularly for younger radiologists.

He said such events would provide opportunities for knowledge sharing, professional interaction and learning about developments in the field. The conference has been organised by the Vijayawada subchapter of AP IRIA in association with AIIMS-Mangalagiri’s Department of Radio-Diagnosis. Members of the association are participating in the sessions, which cover both established radiological practice and newer imaging technologies.