Defining Access for Global Health Radiology
摘要
Access to medical imaging is a complex notion as it is an intersection of different dimensions that impact a patient’s ability to reach much needed, and oftentimes, life-saving medical services. Despite the ever-growing availability of medical imaging worldwide, inequitable access still remains, with low- and middle-income countries disproportionately affected. Access to medical imaging combines the availability and accommodation of services with their accessibility, affordability, acceptability, appropriateness, and approachability. If a patient overcomes barriers in achieving one of these dimensions, this may not improve their ability to access medical imaging services. By understanding the different dimensions of access to medical imaging, global health radiology supporters can help facilities worldwide improve and optimize access to services for the populations that need them the most.