RSNA, The Academy Engage with Federal Policymakers
Leaders push for research funding on Capitol Hill
For the second year, RSNA partnered with the Academy for Radiology & Biomedical Imaging Research (The Academy), co-sponsoring the 2025 Research Roundtable in March at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.
The Research Roundtable serves as a forum for key imaging, radiology industry and federal agency stakeholders to identify research gaps, establish priorities and explore opportunities for cross-sector collaboration.
The pivotal meeting strengthened collaboration between academic medicine, industry and federal agencies by facilitating discussions on advancing medical imaging research and policy.
“A critically important part of the experience was connecting with exceptional colleagues, ranging from those at the beginning of their careers to those who are very experienced, and hearing their thoughtful perspectives about topics critical to our field’s future,” said Pari V. Pandharipande, MD, MPH, professor and chair of radiology at The Ohio State University (OSU) and chief of radiology services for OSU Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, OH.
Dr. Pandharipande serves as the RSNA Board liaison for government relations. She explained that the Roundtable discussions focused on issues related to the use of AI in medicine and the critical role that federal investment plays in advancing biomedical research that improves the health and well-being of Americans.
With approximately 100 participants in attendance, the event helped deepen the understanding of how academia, industry and government can work together beyond commercial transactions to drive impactful radiological research.
Radiologists from Texas participated in the Academy Hill Day. From left to right: Libby O’Hare, PhD, RSNA Government Relations; Robert Smalley, MD, Society for Pediatric Radiology; Olivia Nelson, The Academy for Radiology & Biomedical Imaging Research; Florence L. Chiang, MD, PhD, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; and Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30).
Championing Imaging Research Funding
The day prior to the Roundtable, Dr. Pandharipande and other participants met with congressional offices on Capitol Hill.
“It was a privilege to represent the imaging research community and advocate for continued investment in radiology and biomedical imaging through funding of the NIH, NIBIB, and ARPA-H,” said Alex Towbin, MD, associate chief medical information officer at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and vice-chair of RSNA’s Government Relations Committee. “Our visit was successful in amplifying the message that imaging research plays a pivotal role in driving innovation, improving patient care, reducing overall health care costs, and in powering the economy.”
The Capitol Hill meetings highlighted the connection between research and human health and gave the attendees a chance to share their concerns about the negative impact of potential federal funding cuts.
“It was clear that members of Congress look to us as experts on this issue. It is up to us, as experts, to explain these research efforts and advocate for continued investment in our shared future,” Dr. Towbin said.
RSNA members (left to right), Andrew Smith, MD, St. Jude’s Children Hospital; Alex Towbin, MD, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital; and Pari Pandharipande, MD, MPH.
Speaking Up for Imaging Innovation
Through events like the Research Roundtable, RSNA engages directly with policymakers to help shape the next generation of radiology advancements.
“You don’t need to be a policy expert to make a difference. Radiologists can take simple yet powerful steps—like contacting their representatives, sharing patient stories that highlight the value of imaging, or supporting organizations like RSNA and the Academy that do this advocacy work on our behalf,” Dr. Towbin said. “Even staying informed and helping educate colleagues and trainees about the threats to research funding is a form of advocacy. Our collective voice matters.”
For More Information
Learn more about RSNA’s government relations activities.
Access the 2025 Research Roundtable event details.