What does the term "radiation efficacy" refer to in medical imaging?

Radiation efficacy refers to the balance between the diagnostic benefit that an imaging procedure provides and the associated risks from radiation exposure to the patient. In medical imaging, it is crucial to assess whether the information gained from the imaging is worth the radiation dose the patient receives. Effective use of radiation in medical imaging aims to maximize the diagnostic yield while minimizing potential harm, thereby ensuring that patients receive the best possible care with the least amount of risk. This concept is particularly important because it helps guide practices and policies around imaging procedures, ensuring that they are used judiciously and effectively within the framework of patient safety and health outcomes.