David J Brown MD: Cardiac Imaging for US Patients

David J Brown MD specializes in Cardiac Imaging, a vital diagnostic tool employed across the United States to assess cardiovascular health. Organizations such as the American Heart Association advocate for advanced cardiac imaging techniques to improve patient outcomes. Utilizing state-of-the-art modalities including Cardiac Computed Tomography, David J Brown MD offers patients detailed assessments of their cardiac function and structure. Cardiologists across the nation rely on the expertise and insights of professionals like David J Brown MD to enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.

Cardiac Imaging in the US: A Vital Tool for Heart Health

Cardiac imaging has revolutionized the diagnosis and management of heart conditions, playing an increasingly crucial role in modern medicine.

Its impact on patient care in the United States is undeniable.

What is Cardiac Imaging?

Cardiac imaging encompasses a range of non-invasive and minimally invasive techniques that allow physicians to visualize the heart's structure and function.

These techniques provide detailed information about the heart muscle, valves, chambers, and blood vessels.

This enables accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of various cardiovascular diseases.

Cardiac imaging includes modalities like echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart), cardiac computed tomography (CT), cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and nuclear cardiology techniques such as SPECT and PET scans.

Early Detection and Treatment: The US Imperative

The importance of cardiac imaging in the United States cannot be overstated, particularly concerning early detection and treatment.

Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the US.

Early detection, through the use of cardiac imaging, allows for timely interventions.

These interventions can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of heart disease.

The ability to identify subtle abnormalities or early signs of disease, before they manifest as major clinical events, is a key advantage.

This allows for proactive management and lifestyle modifications.

Cardiac imaging provides critical information for assessing risk, guiding treatment strategies, and monitoring the effectiveness of interventions over time.

Introducing David J Brown MD: A Leader in the Field

David J Brown MD is a highly respected figure in cardiac imaging.

Dr. Brown's expertise spans a wide range of imaging modalities and clinical applications.

He is dedicated to advancing the field through research, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in patient care.

Dr. Brown's insights and contributions are invaluable in navigating the complexities of cardiac imaging.

His work ensures that patients receive the most accurate and effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

He is a champion for utilizing cutting-edge technology and evidence-based practices.

Cardiac Imaging and Cardiovascular Disease: A Critical Connection

As we delve deeper into the realm of cardiac health, it's imperative to understand the profound connection between cardiac imaging and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This relationship isn't merely correlational; it's a fundamental pillar in the fight against CVD, enabling earlier diagnosis, personalized treatment strategies, and meticulous disease monitoring.

The Pervasive Impact of Cardiovascular Disease in the US

Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States, exacting a significant toll on individuals, families, and the healthcare system. Understanding the prevalence and diverse manifestations of CVD is the first step in recognizing the crucial role of cardiac imaging.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease accounts for approximately one in every four deaths in the US. Moreover, the economic burden is staggering, with billions of dollars spent annually on healthcare costs, medications, and lost productivity.

The constellation of conditions encompassed by CVD includes coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, arrhythmias, valve disorders, and congenital heart defects, each requiring a unique approach to diagnosis and management.

Cardiac Imaging: A Cornerstone of Accurate Diagnosis

Cardiac imaging techniques have revolutionized the diagnostic landscape, providing clinicians with unprecedented insights into the structure and function of the heart. These tools offer a non-invasive or minimally invasive means of visualizing the heart, allowing for early detection of abnormalities that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Unveiling the Subtleties of Heart Conditions

Echocardiography, utilizing ultrasound technology, is a workhorse in cardiac imaging, enabling real-time assessment of heart valve function, chamber size, and overall contractile performance. It's particularly valuable in diagnosing heart failure and valvular heart disease.

Cardiac Computed Tomography (CT) excels in visualizing the coronary arteries, the vessels that supply blood to the heart muscle. It can detect the presence of plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), a major contributor to coronary artery disease.

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) offers unparalleled soft tissue contrast, making it ideal for assessing myocardial (heart muscle) viability, detecting scar tissue from prior heart attacks, and evaluating complex congenital heart defects.

Nuclear Cardiology, using SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) and PET (positron emission tomography) scans, assesses myocardial perfusion, revealing areas of reduced blood flow (ischemia) indicating coronary artery disease.

Guiding Treatment and Monitoring Disease Progression

Cardiac imaging is not solely limited to diagnosis. It plays a crucial role in guiding treatment decisions and monitoring the effectiveness of interventions over time.

Precision in Treatment Planning

For instance, in patients with coronary artery disease, cardiac CT can help determine the extent and severity of arterial blockage, guiding decisions about whether to pursue medical therapy, angioplasty, or bypass surgery.

In patients with heart failure, echocardiography and cardiac MRI can assess the severity of the condition and monitor the response to medications or devices like pacemakers and defibrillators.

Long-Term Monitoring for Optimal Outcomes

Furthermore, serial cardiac imaging studies can track the progression of disease, detect complications early, and adjust treatment strategies accordingly.

This is particularly important in chronic conditions like heart failure, where timely interventions can prevent hospitalizations and improve quality of life.

Proactive Heart Health Management: The Imaging Advantage

The benefits of cardiac imaging extend beyond the treatment of existing disease. It is also a powerful tool for proactive heart health management.

Early Detection for Better Prognosis

By identifying individuals at high risk for developing CVD, cardiac imaging can facilitate early interventions, such as lifestyle modifications and medications, to prevent or delay the onset of symptoms. This proactive approach can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

Promoting a Culture of Prevention

For example, coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring, a type of cardiac CT, can quantify the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries, providing a powerful risk assessment tool for individuals with intermediate risk factors for heart disease.

Cardiac imaging offers a pathway to proactive, personalized heart health management, empowering patients and healthcare providers to take control of cardiovascular risk and strive for a healthier future. By embracing the diagnostic and monitoring capabilities of cardiac imaging, we move closer to a future where cardiovascular disease is detected earlier, treated more effectively, and ultimately, prevented whenever possible.

Exploring the Modalities: A Guide to Cardiac Imaging Techniques

The landscape of cardiac imaging is diverse, offering a range of techniques each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Selecting the appropriate modality is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management of heart conditions. This section provides an overview of the primary cardiac imaging techniques, including echocardiography, cardiac CT, cardiac MRI, and nuclear cardiology. We'll discuss the underlying principles, advantages, and limitations to provide a comprehensive understanding of each modality.

Echocardiography: The Power of Ultrasound

Echocardiography, or cardiac ultrasound, is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses sound waves to create real-time images of the heart. It allows clinicians to assess the structure and function of the heart, including valve function, chamber size, and the thickness of the heart walls.

Principles and Applications

Echocardiography works by emitting high-frequency sound waves that reflect off the heart's structures. These reflected waves are then processed to create a visual representation of the heart.

It is particularly useful for evaluating:

• Valve disorders: Assessing the severity of valve stenosis or regurgitation.
• Cardiomyopathy: Identifying changes in heart muscle thickness and function.
• Congenital heart defects: Visualizing structural abnormalities present at birth.

Advantages and Limitations

Echocardiography offers several advantages: it's non-invasive, portable, and relatively inexpensive compared to other imaging modalities. It can be performed at the bedside and doesn't involve radiation exposure.

However, image quality can be affected by factors such as:

• Body habitus: Obesity can hinder sound wave penetration.
• Lung disease: Can interfere with image clarity.
• Patient cooperation: Patient movement can degrade image quality.

Cardiac CT: High-Resolution Anatomical Imaging

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) uses X-rays to create detailed anatomical images of the heart and coronary arteries. It is a rapid and non-invasive technique that can provide valuable information about coronary artery disease and other structural abnormalities.

Visualization Capabilities

Cardiac CT excels at visualizing:

• Coronary artery calcification: Identifying and quantifying calcium deposits in the coronary arteries.
• Coronary artery stenosis: Assessing the degree of narrowing in the coronary arteries.
• Cardiac masses: Detecting tumors or other abnormalities within the heart.

Benefits and Considerations

The benefits of cardiac CT include its high spatial resolution and rapid acquisition time. It can provide detailed anatomical information in a matter of seconds.

However, cardiac CT also has some limitations:

• Radiation exposure: Patients are exposed to ionizing radiation during the scan.
• Contrast agent: The use of iodinated contrast agents may be necessary, which can pose a risk of allergic reactions or kidney damage in some patients.

Cardiac MRI: Comprehensive Tissue Characterization

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart. It offers excellent soft tissue contrast and can provide valuable information about myocardial viability, scar tissue, and other structural abnormalities.

Applications in Cardiac Assessment

Cardiac MRI is particularly useful for:

• Myocardial viability assessment: Determining whether heart muscle is still alive and potentially recoverable after a heart attack.
• Scar tissue characterization: Identifying and quantifying scar tissue in the heart muscle.
• Cardiomyopathy evaluation: Differentiating between ischemic and non-ischemic causes of cardiomyopathy.

Advantages in Clinical Scenarios

Cardiac MRI offers several advantages:

• No radiation exposure: MRI does not use ionizing radiation.
• Superior soft tissue contrast: MRI provides excellent visualization of the heart muscle and surrounding tissues.
• Comprehensive assessment: MRI can provide a comprehensive assessment of cardiac structure, function, and tissue characteristics.

Nuclear Cardiology: Evaluating Myocardial Perfusion

Nuclear cardiology uses radioactive tracers to assess myocardial perfusion, or blood flow to the heart muscle. SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) and PET (positron emission tomography) are the two main types of nuclear cardiology imaging techniques.

The Role of SPECT and PET

SPECT imaging involves injecting a radioactive tracer that is taken up by the heart muscle in proportion to blood flow. PET imaging offers higher resolution and greater accuracy in assessing myocardial perfusion.

Clinical Utility in Diagnosing CAD

Nuclear cardiology is widely used to:

• Diagnose coronary artery disease (CAD): Identify areas of the heart muscle that are not receiving enough blood flow.
• Assess the severity of ischemia: Determine the degree to which blood flow is restricted to the heart muscle.
• Guide treatment decisions: Help clinicians decide whether patients need medical therapy, angioplasty, or bypass surgery.

Choosing the appropriate cardiac imaging modality requires careful consideration of the patient's clinical presentation, risk factors, and the specific information needed to make an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

The Healthcare Team: Cardiologists, Referring Physicians, and Collaboration

Effective cardiac imaging relies on the expertise and coordinated efforts of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.

This section explores the roles of various medical professionals involved in cardiac imaging, emphasizing the critical collaboration between cardiologists, referring physicians, cardiac surgeons, and radiologists to deliver comprehensive patient care.

The Cardiologist: A Central Figure in Cardiac Imaging

Cardiologists stand as the primary specialists in cardiac imaging, possessing in-depth knowledge of cardiovascular physiology, pathology, and the various imaging modalities available.

They are uniquely qualified to interpret complex cardiac images, correlate findings with clinical presentations, and formulate appropriate treatment plans.

The cardiologist's role extends beyond image interpretation to include selecting the most appropriate imaging technique for each patient, considering factors such as clinical indication, patient characteristics, and the relative strengths and limitations of each modality.

The Crucial Collaboration: A Symphony of Expertise

Optimal patient care in cardiac imaging necessitates seamless collaboration among cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and radiologists.

This interdisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of the patient's condition are considered, leading to more accurate diagnoses and more effective treatment strategies.

Cardiac surgeons rely on cardiac imaging to plan and execute surgical interventions, such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or valve repair/replacement.

The detailed anatomical information provided by imaging modalities like cardiac CT and MRI is invaluable for surgical planning, allowing surgeons to optimize their approach and minimize potential complications.

Radiologists play a vital role in acquiring and processing cardiac images, ensuring that images are of the highest quality and free from artifacts. Their expertise in imaging physics and technology is essential for optimizing image acquisition protocols and ensuring accurate image reconstruction.

Regular communication and consultation among these specialists are paramount for coordinating care and achieving the best possible outcomes for patients.

This might involve multidisciplinary conferences where complex cases are discussed, or informal consultations to clarify imaging findings and refine treatment strategies.

Referring Physicians: Identifying the Right Candidates

Referring physicians, including primary care physicians and other specialists, are often the first point of contact for patients with suspected cardiac disease.

They play a crucial role in identifying appropriate candidates for cardiac imaging based on patient symptoms, risk factors, and clinical findings.

Careful consideration of the patient's medical history, physical examination findings, and risk factors for cardiovascular disease is essential for determining whether cardiac imaging is warranted.

For example, a patient with chest pain, shortness of breath, or a family history of heart disease may be referred for cardiac imaging to evaluate for coronary artery disease or other structural heart abnormalities.

Referring physicians must also be aware of the various cardiac imaging modalities available and their relative strengths and limitations. This knowledge allows them to select the most appropriate imaging technique for each patient, ensuring that the diagnostic information obtained is both accurate and relevant.

By working in close collaboration with cardiologists and other members of the healthcare team, referring physicians can help ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate cardiac imaging, leading to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes.

In summary, effective cardiac imaging is a team effort, requiring the expertise and coordinated efforts of cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, radiologists, and referring physicians. By working together collaboratively, these professionals can deliver comprehensive patient care and improve the lives of individuals with cardiovascular disease.

Navigating Guidelines: AHA and ACC Recommendations for Cardiac Imaging

The effective use of cardiac imaging necessitates a clear understanding of established guidelines. This ensures that these powerful diagnostic tools are applied appropriately, maximizing their benefit to patients while minimizing unnecessary risks and costs. Leading organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC) provide comprehensive recommendations that shape best practices in the field.

AHA Endorsements and Guidelines for Appropriate Use

The American Heart Association (AHA) plays a crucial role in shaping the landscape of cardiac imaging. Their guidelines represent a consensus of expert opinion. They are based on rigorous review of the available scientific evidence. These guidelines aim to standardize and optimize the use of cardiac imaging across various clinical scenarios.

The AHA emphasizes the importance of appropriate use criteria (AUC). AUC assists clinicians in determining when a cardiac imaging procedure is truly warranted. These criteria take into account the patient's symptoms, risk factors, and prior test results. The goal is to ensure that imaging is performed only when it is likely to provide valuable information that will influence patient management.

The AHA also provides specific recommendations for the use of different imaging modalities in particular clinical situations. For example, their guidelines address the appropriate use of stress echocardiography, cardiac CT, and cardiac MRI in the evaluation of patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease. These recommendations are regularly updated to reflect the latest advances in cardiac imaging technology and clinical research.

ACC Standards and Recommendations for Cardiac Imaging Practices

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) complements the AHA's efforts by focusing on the practical aspects of cardiac imaging. This includes quality control, reporting standards, and the overall structure of cardiac imaging programs. The ACC's recommendations are designed to ensure that cardiac imaging is performed safely, accurately, and efficiently.

Quality Control and Accreditation

The ACC strongly advocates for robust quality control measures in all cardiac imaging laboratories. This includes regular equipment maintenance, standardized imaging protocols, and ongoing training for imaging personnel. Accreditation by recognized organizations, such as the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC), is encouraged to demonstrate adherence to established quality standards.

Reporting Standards and Data Management

Standardized reporting is another key focus of the ACC's recommendations. Consistent reporting formats help ensure that imaging results are communicated clearly and effectively to referring physicians. This facilitates informed decision-making regarding patient management. The ACC also promotes the use of data registries to track outcomes and identify areas for improvement in cardiac imaging practices.

Integrating Guidelines into Clinical Practice

Successfully integrating AHA and ACC guidelines into routine clinical practice requires a multifaceted approach. This includes education and training for healthcare professionals, the development of decision support tools, and ongoing monitoring of imaging utilization patterns. By actively engaging with these guidelines, clinicians can ensure that they are providing the best possible care to their patients with cardiovascular disease.

Staying current with these evolving guidelines is paramount for all professionals involved in cardiac imaging. Regular updates and continued medical education are essential to maintain proficiency and to provide optimal patient care in accordance with the latest evidence-based practices.

For Patients: Demystifying the Cardiac Imaging Experience

Cardiac imaging plays a vital role in diagnosing and managing heart conditions. However, the prospect of undergoing such a procedure can be daunting for many patients. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after a cardiac imaging scan can significantly reduce anxiety and promote a more comfortable experience.

This section aims to demystify the process, providing patients with the information they need to navigate cardiac imaging with confidence.

Preparing for Your Cardiac Imaging Procedure

Proper preparation is crucial for ensuring accurate results and a smooth procedure. Specific instructions will vary depending on the type of cardiac imaging being performed, so it is essential to follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Pre-Procedure Instructions

Common preparation steps may include:

• Fasting: Certain scans, such as some nuclear cardiology studies or cardiac CT scans, may require you to fast for a specific period (e.g., 4-6 hours) before the procedure. This helps to optimize image quality.

• Medication Adjustments: Your doctor will advise you on whether to continue or temporarily discontinue any medications you are currently taking. It is important to provide a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to your healthcare provider.

• Hydration: For some procedures, you may be asked to drink plenty of fluids before the scan. This helps to improve image clarity and prevent dehydration, especially if contrast dye is used.

• Avoiding Caffeine and Stimulants: In some cases, you may be asked to avoid caffeine, nicotine, and other stimulants for a specified time before the scan, as these substances can affect heart rate and blood pressure.

• Clothing and Personal Items: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment. You may be asked to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, and other metal objects, as they can interfere with the imaging equipment.

What to Bring

Bring your insurance card, a list of medications, and any relevant medical records to your appointment.

If you have any allergies or sensitivities, be sure to inform the medical staff beforehand.

What Happens During a Cardiac Imaging Scan?

The specific steps involved in a cardiac imaging scan will depend on the type of procedure being performed.

However, here's a general overview of what you can expect:

1. Arrival and Check-In: Upon arrival at the imaging center or hospital, you will check in and provide your insurance information and any necessary paperwork.

2. Meeting with the Medical Staff: You will meet with a technologist or nurse who will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have. They will also review your medical history and assess your vital signs.

3. Positioning: You will be positioned on a table or in a specialized imaging machine. Depending on the scan, electrodes may be attached to your chest to monitor your heart's electrical activity.

4. Imaging Acquisition: The imaging equipment will then be used to acquire images of your heart. This may involve lying still for a certain period while the machine takes pictures. The duration of the scan will vary depending on the type of imaging being performed.

5. Contrast Dye (If Applicable): Some cardiac imaging procedures, such as cardiac CT or cardiac MRI, may require the use of a contrast dye. The dye is injected intravenously to enhance the visibility of the heart and blood vessels. You may feel a warm sensation or a metallic taste in your mouth during the injection.

6. Communication: Throughout the procedure, the medical staff will monitor you closely and communicate with you to ensure your comfort and safety.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

After the cardiac imaging scan is complete, you may be asked to remain at the facility for a short period for observation.

Hydration

If contrast dye was used, you will be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the dye out of your system.

Activity

In most cases, you can resume your normal activities immediately after the scan. However, your doctor may advise you to avoid strenuous activities for a certain period.

Potential Side Effects

Side effects from cardiac imaging are rare, but they can occur. Some common side effects include:

• Mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site.
• Allergic reaction to the contrast dye (rare).
• Headache or nausea (uncommon).

If you experience any unusual symptoms after the procedure, contact your doctor immediately.

Finding Cardiac Imaging Services

Locating a facility that offers cardiac imaging services is typically straightforward.

Ask Your Doctor

The best starting point is to consult with your primary care physician or cardiologist. They can recommend reputable hospitals or imaging centers in your area that offer the specific type of cardiac imaging you need.

Online Search

You can also use online search engines to find cardiac imaging facilities. Search for "cardiac imaging [your city]" or "heart scan [your city]" to find nearby options. Be sure to check the facility's credentials and read reviews from other patients.

Hospital and Clinic Websites

Many hospitals and clinics have websites that list their services, including cardiac imaging. You can visit these websites to learn more about the types of imaging they offer, their locations, and their contact information.

Insurance Provider

Your insurance provider may have a list of in-network cardiac imaging facilities. Contact your insurance company to find out which facilities are covered under your plan.

Cardiac imaging is a valuable tool for assessing heart health. By understanding the process, preparing adequately, and following your doctor's instructions, you can ensure a safe and informative experience.

Preventive Cardiology: Using Cardiac Imaging for Early Detection

Cardiac imaging is typically associated with diagnosing symptomatic heart disease. However, its potential extends far beyond, offering a powerful tool in preventive cardiology. This section delves into how cardiac imaging is increasingly used to identify early signs of cardiovascular disease in individuals without apparent symptoms, enabling proactive interventions and potentially averting future cardiac events.

The Proactive Approach to Heart Health

Preventive cardiology emphasizes risk assessment and early intervention to mitigate the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. Traditional risk factors like hypertension, hyperlipidemia, smoking, and family history are crucial indicators, but they often fail to capture the complete picture. Cardiac imaging offers a direct visualization of the heart and its vessels, providing more granular data.

Unveiling Subclinical Disease

One of the most compelling applications of cardiac imaging in prevention is the detection of subclinical coronary artery disease (CAD). This refers to the presence of atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, before it manifests as symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.

Cardiac CT Angiography (CCTA) is a particularly valuable tool for this purpose. It allows for non-invasive visualization of the coronary arteries, enabling the identification and quantification of calcified and non-calcified plaque. The Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) score, derived from CCTA, is a widely accepted marker of subclinical CAD and a strong predictor of future cardiac events.

Risk Stratification and Tailored Interventions

Cardiac imaging findings can significantly refine an individual's cardiovascular risk stratification. The CAC score, for instance, can reclassify individuals initially deemed to be at intermediate risk based on traditional risk factors alone.

Individuals with elevated CAC scores may benefit from more aggressive risk factor modification, such as:

• Statin therapy to lower cholesterol levels.

• Lifestyle changes, including diet modification, regular exercise, and smoking cessation.

• Closer monitoring and follow-up with a cardiologist.

Cardiac MRI can also play a role in preventive cardiology by assessing myocardial structure and function in individuals at risk for heart failure, even before symptoms develop.

Considerations and Appropriate Use

While cardiac imaging offers tremendous potential in preventive cardiology, it's crucial to emphasize appropriate utilization. Indiscriminate screening of the general population is not recommended due to concerns about radiation exposure (with CCTA) and the potential for false-positive results, leading to unnecessary interventions.

Cardiac imaging for prevention should be considered in carefully selected individuals based on:

• An intermediate risk score per traditional risk assessment tools.
• A strong family history of premature coronary artery disease.
• The presence of other risk factors, such as diabetes or chronic kidney disease.

The decision to pursue cardiac imaging for preventive purposes should always be made in consultation with a physician, weighing the potential benefits and risks in the context of individual circumstances.

The Future of Preventive Cardiac Imaging

The field of preventive cardiac imaging is constantly evolving, with ongoing research exploring new techniques and applications. Machine learning and artificial intelligence are being integrated to enhance image analysis and improve risk prediction. As technology advances, cardiac imaging is poised to play an increasingly important role in identifying and managing cardiovascular risk in asymptomatic individuals, paving the way for a future of proactive and personalized heart health management.

So, if you're looking for a top-notch cardiologist specializing in cardiac imaging, especially if you're based in the US, keep David J Brown MD in mind. He's definitely making waves in the field and helping patients get the accurate diagnoses they need.