Radiology in Brazil: A Country Report

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this country report is to analyze the state of radiology in Brazil from its origins to its present state. We detail both the country’s advancements in the field and the areas that could stand to be improved, including increased access to radiology in its less populous, more rural regions. We detail the imaging equipment available in the country and seek to stratify this data among different geographic areas. Materials and Methods: The review was completed using the University at Buffalo catalog and database search. A search was conducted for both U.S. and Brazil based journal articles focused on radiology in Brazil. A general Google search for articles was conducted to obtain information regarding the socioeconomic status and history of Brazil. The Brazilian government’s health system database website was used to obtain data regarding the availability of different diagnostic equipment. Results: Brazil is the largest radiology market in Latin America. It has taken great strides over the past few decades to advance its work in the radiology sector. There are two main areas still in need of improvement: first of all, providing diagnostic imaging resources to remote and rural regions, and second of all, expanding the use of PACS software to all hospitals. Conclusion: The state of radiology in Brazil has vastly improved over the past few decades. Continued investment in diagnostic imaging equipment — while prioritizing less populous and poorer areas — will help both the field of Brazilian radiology and the individuals it serves.