Radiology has traditionally been positioned as a diagnostic support function within healthcare systems, primarily focused on image acquisition and interpretation. However, the increasing complexity of patient care, combined with rapid technological advancements, has transformed radiology into a central component of clinical decision-making and care coordination. In modern healthcare networks, where integrated and multidisciplinary approaches are essential, radiology is evolving from a passive service provider to a strategic node that connects data, clinicians, and patient pathways. This study examines the transformation of radiology within the context of integrated healthcare systems, emphasizing its expanding role in facilitating coordinated care. It argues that the value of radiology extends beyond diagnostic accuracy, encompassing its ability to enhance communication, streamline workflows, and support timely clinical decisions. By situating radiology within healthcare networks, the paper highlights how imaging data can serve as a unifying element that links different stages of care, from initial diagnosis to treatment planning and follow-up. The analysis develops a systems-based framework for understanding radiology as an integrative function within healthcare delivery. Key dimensions include workflow integration, interdisciplinary collaboration, digital transformation, and data interoperability. The study also explores how technologies such as artificial intelligence, advanced imaging systems, and integrated information platforms enable radiology to contribute more actively to patient management and system efficiency. Through scenario-based evaluation, the paper contrasts traditional radiology models, characterized by fragmentation and delayed communication, with integrated approaches that emphasize real-time coordination and shared decision-making. It further addresses the challenges associated with this transformation, including data silos, implementation barriers, and the need for cultural and organizational change. By redefining radiology as a strategic component of healthcare networks, this study provides a framework for leveraging imaging services to improve quality, efficiency, and patient outcomes. It offers insights for healthcare leaders, radiologists, and policymakers seeking to design systems that fully integrate radiology into the broader continuum of care.
Umit Derundere (Mon,) studied this question.