RSNA Board Advocates for Enhanced Role of Advanced Practice Providers in Radiology

As workforce pressures in radiology continue to affect capacity and patient access, the RSNA Board of Directors has recognized advanced practice providers (APPs) as a crucial part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance radiologist-led care teams.

Leslie E. Partridge, RRA, MS, RT(R), a registered radiologist assistant at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, noted that the utilization of radiology-based APPs varies significantly across the United States. "Greater role alignment will increase understanding about how APPs can work as part of a radiologist-led team, clarify misconceptions about APP practice, and strengthen and unify radiology-based education and training of APPs," she stated.

Anne M. Covey, MD, RSNA Board liaison for public information and professionalism, highlighted that APPs can optimize workflows in diverse capacities, including assistance with documentation, the protocoling of studies, and patient follow-up.

In 2024, the Board formed the Task Force on Advanced Practice Providers in Radiology, tasked with exploring the potential roles of APPs—such as nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), and radiologist assistants (RAs)—in mitigating ongoing workforce challenges. Dr. Covey emphasized that APPs might also enhance care capacity in underserved regions through direct patient care and teleradiology models.

During its June 2025 meeting, the Board reviewed and accepted the task force’s final report, concluding the group’s work. Dr. Covey pointed out that variability in APP practice can generate uncertainty: "Challenges can arise from confusion regarding inherent differences in education and scope of practice among diverse types of APPs that are employed in imaging."

Partridge suggested that these differences can be mitigated by aligning APP roles with specific practice needs. "It is important for radiologists or prospective employers to evaluate what needs or gaps they have within their imaging departments and use that information to determine how APPs can best meet those needs," she explained. "I feel that there will always be variability in how APPs are integrated."

Christopher Davis, DMSc, PA-C, RT(R), a physician assistant at Radiology Partners in Phoenix, noted that a practice-specific strategy relies on clearly defining the roles and expectations within the team. Davis co-founded Physician Associates in Radiology (PAIR), which was recognized by the American Academy of Physician Associates as a specialty organization in 2026.

"APPs can be invaluable members of a radiologist-led team," said Davis. "As no radiology practice is exactly the same, each radiology group will benefit from developing a specific scope of practice, which is best developed with clear goals and open communication among team members."

While the RSNA task force identified several key areas for engagement, the Board prioritized immediate impact opportunities leveraging RSNA’s strengths in convening and education. This focus emphasizes the necessity of better integrating APPs into radiology care teams.

"Thoughtful integration of APPs into a radiology practice can free up radiologists to work at the top of their licenses," stated Dr. Covey.

Partridge reiterated the significance of collaboration in achieving these goals. "It is not about competition, but it is about how we can work together to balance daily workflows and best fulfill the needs of our patients and radiology departments," she affirmed.