The American College of Radiology (ACR) is joining the Society for Participatory Medicine (SPM). ACR CEO William T. Thorwarth Jr., MD, said the move comes as more physicians in different roles are making an effort to connect with patients.

“It’s imperative that radiologists be leaders in patient engagement since that collaboration is critical in the redesign of the nation’s health care system,” he said.

The partnership will manifest in the new ACR Commission on Patient- and Family-Centered Care, which offers resources to physicians to help them better integrate patients and families into their practices.

Representatives from both the ACR and the SPM explained that even though not all radiologists and patients will have extensive contact, many people will have at least some contact with a radiologist during their lifetime. They said they hope the partnership between the two organizations will make those interactions easier and more productive, and will create opportunities to influence policy, patient care plans and facility management.