2024’s Leading Policy and Practice News
TL/DR –
Top news in cardiology in 2024 revolved around the use of artificial intelligence, particularly in echocardiography where deep learning models have improved evaluation efficiency. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced the negotiation of prices for 10 drugs due to the Inflation Reduction Act, many of which are used for cardiology patients. Changes in cardiology practices have seen a significant increase in private equity interest, with these firms now owning roughly half of all cardiology clinics in the U.S.
Innovation, AI, drug costs and shortages, and private equity influences in Cardiology 2024
Key events in the cardiology sector in 2024 were centred around innovation, particularly regarding the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), changes in healthcare delivery, and reimbursement updates.
Progress in AI is impacting the field significantly. In echocardiography, deep learning models are enhancing efficiency and complete heart evaluations. The AI model ChatGPT (OpenAI) has shown potential in guiding heart team decisions for coronary revascularization patients.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) revealed the first 10 drugs to have their prices negotiated under the Inflation Reduction Act, many of which are for cardiology patients. Further, the payment rate for coronary computed tomography angiography has doubled for next year, despite cuts in the physician fee schedule.
Recent trends reveal private equity firms now own about half of all US cardiology clinics, significantly altering the operation of cardiology practices.
As glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists surge in popularity, access has become constricted. Shortages have prompted physicians to seek other options.
Lastly, the American Heart Association celebrated its 100th birthday this year, reflecting its significant contributions to the cardiology field since its inception in 1924.
Expert Opinions
Speaking with TCTMD, American College of Cardiology President Cathleen Biga highlighted the evolution in physician employment models, AI’s clinical implementation, and patient access to care as key themes of 2024.
Biga emphasized the importance of patient access to care, stressing the need for new patients to be seen promptly. “That rule went so far out of the window this year, that no matter what I do, I cannot get enough new patient slots opened,” she said.
Dr. David Ouyang of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center noted the broad application of advancing technology in drugs and AI tools. He mentioned the challenge of AI implementation and reimbursement in the future.
Ouyang added that the widespread use of tools like ChatGPT over the past year demonstrates the growing acceptance of AI in everyday life. “We are seeing inevitably AI will permeate medicine,” he said.
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