'The Real Harm Is in Missing the Diagnosis' with Dr. Ehsan Samei

In this episode of Frame by Frame, host Chris St John sits down with Dr. Ehsan Samei, a distinguished medical physicist, to explore the true value of medical imaging - and why the traditional "benefit vs. risk" debate misses the point. From challenging outdated views on radiation exposure to advocating for a more patient-centered approach to imaging decisions, this conversation reveals how imaging’s benefits dramatically outweigh the risks when used appropriately. Whether you're a healthcare professional refining your understanding of radiation safety or a patient curious about its real-world implications, this episode offers a fresh and essential perspective on imaging’s transformative role in modern care.

In this episode of Frame by Frame, host Chris St John is joined by Dr. Ehsan Samei, a leading medical physicist and advocate for patient-centered imaging.

Dr. Samei challenges long-held assumptions about radiation risk, urging a shift away from fear-based thinking. He critiques the limitations of population-based radiation thresholds and emphasizes why shared decision-making should drive medical imaging practices.

Through accessible examples, Dr. Samei explains why delayed or denied imaging can often pose a greater risk than the radiation itself. He also breaks down the widely debated Linear No-Threshold model and how it’s frequently misunderstood in clinical contexts.

As Chief Imaging Physicist at Duke University and a Distinguished Professor, Dr. Samei offers insights that are both scientifically grounded and deeply human. Whether you’re a clinician or simply someone curious about your healthcare, this episode provides a vital rethink of how we talk about imaging, risk, and patient trust.

Chapters:

[00:00] Intro & Welcome with Dr. Ehsan Samei

[02:24] Medical Imaging: A Gift to Modern Healthcare

[06:46] Patient Autonomy and Shared Decision-Making

[11:04] Understanding the Linear No-Threshold Model

[17:30] Cancer Risk: Separating Facts from Fear

[25:20] Radiation Doses: High vs Low Exposure Data

[29:52] Thresholds vs Clinical Guidance in Practice

[39:13] Communicating Benefits to Patients

[44:59] Key Takeaways & Preview of Part 2