New Platform Centralizes Cardiology Imaging Data

The push for integrated cardiology imaging is driven by a significant shift of services from inpatient to outpatient settings. From 2010 to 2019, myocardial perfusion imaging in cardiologists' offices dropped by 52%, while it increased by 71% in hospital outpatient departments. This migration is largely a result of reimbursement changes, such as the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, which made in-office imaging less viable for many cardiologists. This trend has opened opportunities for radiologists, who have seen a 355% increase in coronary CT angiography (CCTA) procedures in the hospital outpatient setting. While cardiologists still handle the majority of cardiac imaging, radiologists are gaining ground in CCTA and cardiac MRI (cMRI). The growth in outpatient cMRI has been significant for both specialties, with rates for radiologists and cardiologists increasing by 207% and 209% respectively. Recent Medicare reimbursement changes are set to accelerate these shifts. In 2025, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will more than double the hospital outpatient reimbursement for CCTA, increasing the payment from approximately $175 to $357. This financial incentive is expected to dramatically increase the adoption and utilization of CCTA services in outpatient facilities. The rise of value-based care further complicates the landscape, as the industry moves away from a fee-for-service model. CMS aims to have all Medicare beneficiaries in an accountable care relationship by 2030, incentivizing providers to improve quality and reduce overall costs. This shift encourages the adoption of technologies like AI and remote monitoring that can improve diagnostics and workflow efficiency, even if they aren't directly reimbursed. Artificial intelligence is rapidly being integrated into cardiac imaging, with the FDA having approved 277 AI/ML devices for cardiology applications. These tools primarily focus on diagnostics and imaging, enhancing capabilities like automated ejection fraction calculation and myocardial fibrosis analysis. Recent FDA clearances include software that enables healthcare professionals with limited experience to acquire high-quality cardiac ultrasound scans. The global market for cardiac imaging software is projected to grow significantly, with estimates suggesting a rise to over $1.7 billion by 2035, up from around $705 million in 2024. North America currently leads this market, driven by its advanced healthcare infrastructure and high prevalence of cardiovascular disease. Key trends fueling this growth include the adoption of AI-driven analytics and cloud-based platforms that facilitate remote access and collaboration. However, significant workflow challenges remain. Many cardiology departments struggle with fragmented, non-integrated systems for different imaging modalities like echo and ECGs, leading to inefficiencies. Often, the PACS systems in use were originally designed for radiology and are not optimized for the specific needs and complexities of cardiac care. To compete, health systems are expanding their freestanding imaging footprints through acquisitions, joint ventures, and new construction. Mobile imaging is also emerging as a key strategy to increase accessibility, expand capacity, and provide a more patient-centered approach in a value-based care environment.