The traditional view of the radiologist as a physician who adds value to the health care system solely by generating and interpreting diagnostic images is outdated. The radiologists' roles have expanded to encompass economic gatekeeping, political advocacy, public health delivery, patient safety, quality of care improvement and information technology. It is through these roles that radiologists will continue to find new ways to add value to the healthcare system. Increased utilization of diagnostic imaging significantly affects utilization of funds, systems operations of a healthcare system, patient safety, and the system's information infrastructure.