Medical Imaging Data Calls for a Thoughtful and Collaborative Approach to Data Governance
Aline Lütz de Araújo, Jie Wu, Hugh Harvey, Matthew P. Lungren, Mackenzie Graham, Tim Leiner, Martin J. Willemink · PLOS Digital Health · 2025
The availability of medical imaging data is indispensable for medical advancements such as the development of new diagnostic tools, improved surgical navigation systems, and profiling for personalized medicine through imaging biomarkers. A central challenge in data governance is balancing the need to protect patient privacy with the necessity of promoting scientific innovation. Restrictive data governance policies could limit access to the large, high-quality datasets needed for such advancements. Conversely, lenient policies could compromise patient trust and lead to potential misuse of sensitive information. We call for a deliberate and well-considered approach to data governance, highlighting important factors that patients and healthcare organizations should consider when making imaging data governance decisions around data sharing.