Radiology experts to train radiologists, pediatricians and physicians in Haiti

Expert radiologists and representatives from the American College of Radiology (ACR); the World Federation of Pediatric Imaging; the Society of Pediatric Radiology; the Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound; and the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers will gather in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, March 25-26, to provide a series of didactic lectures and hands-on ultrasound training at "Radiology Education Days."

One-hundred radiologists, pediatricians and physicians from Haiti will gather for the two-day event that will focus on pediatric imaging. "Radiology Education Days" is part of the ACR's ongoing commitment to improve radiological care in Haiti after the devastating earthquake in January 2010.

"Because of a dire need for basic radiology education, the ability of Haitians to get even basic radiologic care is threatened. 'Radiology Education Days' is another opportunity for the ACR and others to strengthen and build radiologic care in Haiti and potentially save lives. The ACR is proud to partner with other societies to provide the Port-au-Prince community with this one-of-a-kind educational program. I am confident it will make a positive impact on the Haitian medical community and those they serve," said Paul H. Ellenbogen, M.D., FACR, chair of the American College of Radiology Board of Chancellors.

"Radiology Education Days" is made possible, in part, by the Haiti Radiology Relief Fund, which was created by the ACR Foundation International Outreach Program to help supply health care facilities on the ground in Haiti with necessary radiological support for immediate relief and assistance and long-term rebuilding efforts.

"The ACR will continue to help the Haitian medical community rebuild and restore its radiology infrastructure. However, additional help is needed to ensure the overall success of our efforts. I want to thank all of those who have already contributed time, money and resources to this necessary cause and encourage those who haven't to consider making a donation," said James P. Borgstede, M.D., FACR, chair of the ACR International Outreach Committee.

"Radiology Education Days" is supported on the ground by International Child Care, which supports Grace Children's Hospital (GCH), a facility that was destroyed during the earthquake. The ACR has continued to work with GCH as it rebuilds and expands its capacity to assist Haiti's children.