Another focus is standardizing on a global level by cooperating with peer groups to create guidelines and appropriate use criteria for the many cutting-edge areas of nuclear medicine and theranostics.

HCB News: What are some of the challenges facing nuclear medicine and molecular imaging?
HN: The potential future impact of nuclear medicine on the care of patients dealing with cancer, heart disease, brain disease and other challenges is enormous. These advances in healthcare need to be supported with appropriate incentives and reimbursement, and that is the purpose of the Facilitating Innovation in Nuclear Medicine Act (the FIND Act), which is aimed at correcting the fundamental reimbursement process for diagnostic nuclear medicine radiopharmaceuticals. Without appropriate reimbursement, the medicine will not reach many of the patients who need it.
Another big challenge for nuclear medicine is increasing its workforce pipeline. As the value of precision imaging and theranostics is increasingly recognized, the field is experiencing an explosion of growth. Coming on top of the workforce shortages that so many medical fields are experiencing right now, we are taking strong measures to keep up.

HCB News: Are there any sessions or presentations at this year's meeting that you're particularly excited about?
HN: I’m excited to hear about current research in the field, of course. In addition, I’m looking forward to seeing the innovations planned for this meeting. We have replaced the traditional poster hall with a new, high-tech, revamped science pavilion. We have a series of “arena” sessions that will encourage discussion, creative engagement and debate. New “Best of” scientific sessions will showcase important science presented in related medical areas that intersect with nuclear medicine. The expanded Knowledge Bowl is going to be great—and it’s only one of many networking options at this meeting. Finally, we will have “Eye on U” sessions that focus on personal growth, goals and happiness.

HCB News: What can attendees do to make the most of their time at SNMMI 2023?
HN: This meeting offers such a wide variety of interesting information and opportunities that it can be a bit overwhelming. I encourage attendees to take a careful look at the program before the meeting and map out the sessions that most interest you. Also, make time for as many networking opportunities as you can—this meeting offers a unique environment for exchanging ideas and experiences and establishing a network of contacts that can significantly impact your professional growth going forward.

HCB News: What's the best piece of advice you've ever gotten?
HN: My father taught me a saying: “Who is the richest? One that is happy with their lot in life.” He followed that advice, and I have tried to follow in my life as well. For me, it means no matter what your circumstances, you can find opportunities for joy and contentment.

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