On Demand: Optimizing Your Nuclear Lab: Why Programs Can’t Afford to Ignore It-Webinar Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The MedAxiom and Catalyst MedTech webinar focused on optimizing nuclear cardiology labs, emphasizing why administrators must prioritize updating equipment and addressing workforce shortages. The session highlighted challenges like aging SPECT/PET cameras, declining volumes due to competition from cardiac CT angiography (CTA), staffing shortages, and reimbursement cuts. Dr. Scott Jerome shared his real-world journey upgrading a 20-year-old camera in an academic practice, detailing budget challenges, vendor options, and strategies for convincing administration by linking upgrades to mission-driven patient care and financial benefits. He stressed the importance of concise, personalized communication with decision-makers and provided cost analyses tied to imaging volumes.<br /><br />Tracy Young from Catalyst MedTech underscored that optimization means smarter workflows through equipment upgrades, improving image quality, expanding test offerings, and protecting revenue by reducing downtime and avoiding excessive labor costs—critical amid a national technologist shortage. She related how outdated systems deter technologists and hamper physician confidence, impacting patient care and departmental profitability.<br /><br />Catalyst MedTech CEO Martin Shirley explained the company’s unique integrated approach: offering new, refurbished, and upgrade solutions for nuclear cardiology and CT equipment alongside clinical staffing services. With substantial recent investments, their advanced digital systems provide faster, lower-dose imaging, reducing radioactive material costs and improving workforce retention. They also support smaller footprint equipment options and emphasize collaboration to find cost-effective, tailored upgrades, helping practices maintain competitiveness and deliver high-quality patient care. The webinar concluded with Q&A discussing modality balance, old equipment relocation risks, and strategic upgrade decisions.

Keywords

nuclear cardiology

equipment upgrades

workforce shortages

SPECT/PET cameras

cardiac CT angiography

staffing shortages

reimbursement cuts

workflow optimization

digital imaging systems

clinical staffing services