International Medical Imaging and Medical Devices Community Support for a WHA Resolution on Strengthening equitable access to diagnostic imaging through teleradiology
This statement is supported by:
-International Society of Radiology (ISR) – organizing NSA
-DITTA
-HUMATEM
-IOMP
-ISRRT
-MSIF
-SIOP
-WFNMB
-WFUMB

Honorable Chair, Distinguished Delegates,
The proposed resolution “Strengthening equitable access to diagnostic imaging through teleradiology” makes a timely contribution to advancing universal health coverage (UHC) by addressing persistent inequities in access to essential diagnostic imaging services, which are fundamental to prevention, diagnosis, treatment planning and monitoring across the care continuum.
Teleradiology offers a practical, scalable means of extending radiology expertise beyond facility boundaries, particularly in underserved and remote areas where shortages of trained specialists remain a major constraint. When integrated into health systems, teleradiology can optimize the use of limited human resources, improve timeliness and quality of diagnosis, and support service continuity. It can enable the implementation of relevant strategies and resolutions, including WHA78.13 on Strengthening Medical Imaging Capacity, complementing investments in infrastructure, workforce development and service delivery.
The benefits of teleradiology can only be realized if implementation is safe, ethical and sustainable. The proposed resolution underscores the need for robust national policy and regulatory frameworks, strong data protection and interoperability standards, workforce training, and clinical oversight. By establishing these safeguards, the resolution helps ensure that teleradiology strengthens health systems, protects patients and supports UHC.
The imaging professionals and the medical technology community stand ready to collaborate with Member States and the WHO to support the implementation of the resolution.