Beyond Accuracy: The Real Metric for AI Success in Radiology with Leonardo Bittencourt

Episode notes

Innovation in radiology AI isn’t about chasing perfect accuracy, it’s about making AI tools fit seamlessly into clinical workflows to deliver real-world value. In this episode of Frame by Frame: Rethink Imaging , host Chris St John welcomes Dr. Leonardo Bittencourt, Vice Chair of Innovation at University Hospitals Cleveland and leader of Radically, the radiology AI and diagnostic innovation collaborative. With more than 11 years at DASA, Brazil’s largest diagnostic company, and extensive academic expertise, Dr. Bittencourt has built a reputation as a pioneer in validating and implementing AI tools in practice. His work includes global collaborations with startups most notably AZMED, which achieved FDA approval through his structured validation efforts, alongside a strong research background in abdominal radiology and prostate MRI. The conversation explores why AI solutions that achieve 100% workflow integration at 80% accuracy often outperform tools with higher accuracy but poor usability. Dr. Bittencourt explains how radiology departments can evaluate AI solutions beyond accuracy metrics, focusing instead on patient outcomes, downstream effects, and system-wide impact.