Finding Our Future: Reflections on SIIM’s Past, Present, and Future

In 2005, many of my colleagues and I were still debating whether the new generation of flat-panel monitors could match the trusted cathode ray tubes (CRTs) for making diagnoses. Sure, CRTs were bulky, heavy, and turned a reading room into a sauna, but they were reliable. As a trainee, I had the opportunity to present our research on this topic at the Society for Computer Applications in Radiology (SCAR) annual meeting in Orlando.

Stepping into that expansive, carpeted ballroom, surrounded by the luminaries of imaging informatics, was a pivotal moment for me. I was struck not only by the brilliance of the minds in the room but by their warmth, their generosity, and their openness. That meeting changed the course of my career—and, as it turns out, the course of the society itself.

Little did I know that some of the very people I had just met were already working behind the scenes on a major strategic transformation for SCAR. The following year, the organization rebranded as the Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM), a bold move that reflected the expanding role of imaging across multiple disciplines and the growing importance of informatics beyond just radiology.

That strategic shift laid the groundwork for more than a decade of enterprise imaging innovation, groundbreaking research, and professional leadership, shaping the field as we know it today.

Navigating Change at SIIM Headquarters

Now, 20 years later, I find myself in another room—this time at SIIM headquarters in Virginia, sitting with colleagues, mentors, and friends at our February 2025 Strategic Planning Retreat. But this time, it’s not just my career I’m thinking about—it’s the future of our profession, our members, and this society that has meant so much to me.

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We are at a turning point. The field of imaging informatics is evolving rapidly, driven by AI, automation, and digital transformation. The expectations placed on imaging professionals, technologists, and data scientists are higher than ever, and SIIM must evolve to meet their needs.

During the retreat, we tackled difficult but necessary questions:

• How do we prepare for ongoing uncertainty in the healthcare and technology landscape?
• What do future imaging informaticists need from SIIM to advance their careers and the field?
• How do we ensure our governance and stewardship keep pace with the changing needs of our members?
• What values must guide us as we move forward?

As I looked around the room, I recognized many of the same leaders I admired in 2005—still shaping the future of our field and guiding SIIM with unwavering commitment and passion. I felt grateful to be among them, while also excited to meet new colleagues, including those visiting SIIM headquarters for the first time.

The More Things Change…

Much has changed since 2005.

• CRTs have disappeared from reading rooms—in fact, it’s hard to even find pictures of them in healthcare settings anymore on the internet.
• AI, cloud computing, and automation are redefining imaging workflows.
• The lines between radiology, pathology, cardiology, dermatology, and other imaging-intensive specialties are blurring in ways we never imagined.

But some things haven’t changed. SIIM remains committed to being the home for imaging informaticists—a place where professionals come to learn, discover, innovate, and implement solutions that advance healthcare.

It was 20 years ago that I discovered that I belong at SIIM. And today, I can confidently say that the leadership and volunteers of this organization are working tirelessly to ensure that you can say the same—both now and 20 years from now.

I invite you to be a part of this journey. Join us at SIIM25 in Portland, OR, where we will unveil more details about our strategic direction and the future of imaging informatics. Let’s continue to build this professional home—together.

See you in Portland!

Nabile M. Safdar, MD, MPH, FSIIM
Board Chair, SIIM

Disclosure Statement

This message was initially drafted completely by me.  It was then revised using the assistance of AI-based tools to enhance clarity and readability. However, the content, themes, and perspectives reflect my personal experiences and insights as SIIM Board Chair. The final message was reviewed and refined to ensure authenticity that it reflected my original thoughts.