Why is minimizing unnecessary imaging important in healthcare?

Minimizing unnecessary imaging is crucial in healthcare primarily because it mitigates potential radiation risks. Medical imaging, especially procedures that involve ionizing radiation such as X-rays, CT scans, and fluoroscopy, can expose patients to varying levels of radiation. These exposures accumulate over time, and while the immediate risks may be low, there is a long-term concern related to the development of radiation-induced conditions, including cancer. By limiting unnecessary imaging, healthcare providers can significantly reduce patients' cumulative radiation exposure and, consequently, the associated health risks.

This approach aligns with the principle of "as low as reasonably achievable" (ALARA), which aims to minimize radiation doses while obtaining the necessary diagnostic information. Ultimately, prioritizing the health and safety of patients helps maintain trust in the healthcare system while ensuring that imaging is performed only when clinically justified.