The Diffusion of New Imaging Technologies: A Molecular Imaging Prospective

Molecular imaging is a complex of technologies that will diffuse into clinical practice over the next 10 to 20 years. Because of characteristics of both the technology and the environment, molecular imaging has the potential to be disruptive to conventional radiology practice. Environmental influences, including scientific and clinical characteristics of the technology, the interests of commercial firms, competition among radiologists and with other specialists, and regulation and reimbursement decision making will influence both the pace of diffusion and the eventual success of various molecular imaging technologies. Molecular imaging poses both threats and exciting opportunities for radiologists. Radiologists must decide how they wish to cope with the advent of molecular imaging, choosing for the present among ignoring its potential, attempting to fit molecular imaging into current practice models, or morphing how they practice to accommodate molecular imaging as a part of radiologic practice.