The History of Appropriate Use Criteria in Cardiovascular Diagnostic Imaging: Bridging the Past, Present, and Future

Cardiovascular diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role in modern health care, supporting accurate diagnosis, risk stratification, and the management of cardiovascular diseases. However, ensuring that imaging is used appropriately has become a key focus in optimizing patient outcomes and resource use. This article examines the historical evolution of cardiovascular imaging, with a primary focus on nuclear cardiology, and discusses current challenges related to adhering to appropriate use criteria. It also explores the future potential of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and clinical decision-support systems. By addressing operational and clinical challenges and proposing strategies for collaboration and innovation, the health care community can bridge past lessons with future advancements to improve the appropriate use of cardiovascular diagnostic imaging.