ACR Offers Guidance on Using AI-Generated Radiology Report Summaries

The American College of Radiology has released a new resource to help patients understand and effectively use artificial intelligence-generated summaries of their imaging reports. The two-page handout, created by the college’s Patient- and Family-Centered Care Economics Committee in collaboration with its Artificial Intelligence Economics Committee, aims to educate consumers on how to navigate these increasingly popular synopses.

The handout explores AI’s role in radiology, explaining why it is used to generate summaries of imaging reports. It also addresses common questions patients may have about AI in imaging, including the limitations of relying solely on artificial intelligence and whether the technology is properly regulated.

According to ACR, AI-generated summaries are not meant to replace face-to-face discussions with healthcare providers but rather serve as a tool to aid understanding. The handout emphasizes that these auto-generated explainers do not review study images or provide new medical opinions. Instead, they aim to make complex information more accessible and easier to understand.

The college stresses the importance of patients speaking directly with their provider about any unclear or worrisome aspects of the summary. While AI can streamline communication by providing a concise overview of imaging results, it is no substitute for human interpretation and discussion.

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology found that large language models can significantly boost patients’ understanding of their imaging results. This underscores the potential benefits of using AI-generated summaries as a tool to support patient education and care coordination.

The ACR encourages its members to incorporate this handout into patient education materials and clinical workflows where AI-generated summaries are available, promoting more informed discussions between patients and healthcare providers.