Remote scanning is rapidly emerging as a key innovation in medical imaging — addressing workforce shortages, operational efficiency, and patient care needs. The AHRA Remote Scanning Survey (Part II) highlights how imaging leaders are adopting, implementing, and planning for remote scanning across their organizations.

We invite you to review the top 10 takeaways of the survey below and view the full results on the AHRA website.

1. Adoption is growing, but still limited.

• Despite pilot programs increasing, 82% of respondents have not yet implemented remote scanning.
• In adoption rates, MRI (85%) leads, followed by CT (48%).
• Top barriers to adoption include safety concerns (72%), lack of organizational interest (40%), and regulatory limits (5%).

2. Staffing and expertise drive use.
   • Primary use cases include staffing shortages, overnight coverage, and callouts.
   • Expertise sharing and peer coaching during complex procedures account for 67% of use cases.
3. Greater productivity and access is on the rise.
   • Improved productivity is reported by 63% of respondents.
   • Expanded access in underserved areas is noted by 48%.
4. Bedside presence remains essential.
   • Remote scanning is not viewed as a replacement for on-site staff by 71% of respondents.
   • Credentialed technologists or trained assistants remain required for patient safety and contrast support.
5. The need for credentialing holds steady.
   • Credentialing of remote technologists is required by 96% of respondents.
   • Only licensed technologists, nurses, or advanced practitioners may administer contrast.
6. Safety protocols and emergency response remain local.
   • Remote technologists cannot assume responsibility for adverse events.
   • On-site teams manage all safety and emergency protocols.
7. Staffing models favor internal teams.
   • Direct employment of remote staff is the model for 93% of respondents.
   • Some train non-imaging personnel to support workflows; others restrict roles to credentialed technologists.
8. Leadership and policy are key.
   • Radiology leaders and vendors are critical to program design.
   • The ACR MRI Manual (2024) is a frequently cited standard.
9. Contingency systems are vital.
   • Back-up systems for safety and continuity — covering internet, phones, staffing, downtime protocols, and an uninterruptible power supply — are maintained by 72% of respondents.
10. Expansion momentum is building.
    • Respondents anticipate broader remote scanning use, especially in MRI and CT, to address workforce shortages, enhance training, and expand access.

About the Respondents

A total of 179 responses were collected, representing perspectives from a wide range of roles. This includes imaging supervisors, directors, physicians, radiology quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) specialists, and executives.

Respondent Membership Affiliations

• AHRA members: 78%
• Radiology Business Management Association (RBMA) members: 4%
• Members of both AHRA and RBMA: 7%
• Non-members of either AHRA or RBMA: 11%

The full results to the Remote Scanning Survey can be found on the AHRA website. We extend our thanks to the AHRA Regulatory Affairs Panel for their diligent work in developing this survey.