A Conversation with ASNC’s New President, Dr. Panithaya Chareonthaitawee

Panithaya Chareonthaitawee, MD, became president of ASNC on Jan. 1, 2025. We recently talked with Dr. Chareonthaitawee about her vision for the year ahead, her thoughts on AI and other innovations in nuclear cardiology, and ASNC’s 30th Annual Scientific Session and Exhibition. Here is an excerpt from the conversation:

What are your priorities for your ASNC presidency?

I am deeply honored to serve as the ASNC president in 2025. Nuclear cardiology is entering a transformative era, with groundbreaking innovations and discoveries that have the potential to redefine how we diagnose, treat, and care for patients. My primary goal during this presidency is to foster excitement for the field amidst these advancements while ensuring that innovation is balanced with responsibility.

This includes equipping our community with tools for learning new skills, embracing best practices, and advancing good science and stewardship. It also means addressing critical issues such as patient access and the broader impact of these innovations. To achieve this, ASNC will promote even more innovative educational approaches, such as virtual and hybrid formats, on-demand programs, and bite-sized learning opportunities. I look forward to ensuring that our programs continue to align with ASNC’s core mission of using nuclear cardiology to enhance patient care and improve lives.

Will you share some thoughts on the role of AI in nuclear cardiology?

Artificial intelligence is poised to transform nuclear cardiology by enhancing precision, efficiency, and access to advanced care. From improving image quality and automating processes to integrating data from imaging and electronic medical records, AI has the potential to refine diagnosis and guide personalized treatment. AI can support clinicians in study interpretation, streamline workflows, and strengthen the role of nuclear cardiology in comprehensive disease management. ASNC will continue to champion education and innovation to ensure our community is equipped to harness these advancements responsibly and effectively for the benefit of patients.

What new innovations in nuclear cardiology are you most excited about?

In her President-elect Address at ASNC2024, Panithaya Chareonthaitawee, MD, highlighted innovations that are transforming nuclear cardiology.

That’s a tough question, akin to asking me to choose a favorite child. I’m genuinely excited about all the innovations in nuclear cardiology! If I had to pick one, it might be the FDA approval of F-18 flurpiridaz. This is the first new perfusion tracer in nearly 30 years, a groundbreaking development for myocardial perfusion imaging, which is central to our field. This tracer has the potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve accessibility for patients, and provide unparalleled clarity in detecting coronary artery disease.

I’m equally excited about advancements in cardiac amyloidosis imaging, such as I-124 evuzamitide, which are redefining diagnostic sensitivity and opening new doors for patient care. These innovations remind us that nuclear cardiology is not just about diagnosing disease—it’s about transforming patient management and outcomes in ways we could only dream of a few years ago.

What can you tell us about ASNC2025?

ASNC2025, set to take place Sept. 5-7, 2025, at the Caribe Royale Orlando in Florida, promises to be a highlight of the year for the nuclear cardiology community. Under the expert guidance of Program Chair Wael A. Jaber, MD, FASNC, Program Vice Chair Paul Cremer, MD, MS, and International Co-chair Alessia Gimelli, MD, the conference will feature a dynamic lineup of over 50 sessions, thoughtfully designed to address a broad spectrum of interests and expertise.

There will be something for everyone. Attendees can look forward to comprehensive, disease-based tracks; hands-on workshops to enhance technical skills; and engaging sessions on emerging innovations such as AI, F-18 flurpiridaz, and cardiac amyloidosis imaging. The program will also include sessions addressing practical challenges, such as optimizing lab efficiency and navigating evolving healthcare landscapes.

ASNC2025 will be accessible both in person and virtually, ensuring that participants from around the globe can join this unique learning and networking opportunity. With its focus on education, collaboration, and the latest advancements in nuclear cardiology, ASNC2025 will undoubtedly inspire and equip attendees to deliver the best care for their patients. It will be an unmissable event for professionals dedicated to the evolution of nuclear cardiology. I hope to see everyone there!

Dr. Chareonthaitawee’s first President’s Message is now published in the Journal of Nuclear Cardiology.

President’s Message