A CARDIOLOGIST from UST Hospital has been certified by an international assessment for cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR).
Dr. Alena Pias Bantolo, who specializes in internal medicine and adult cardiology, passed the written component of the certification administered by the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging on Nov. 21.
Bantolo took the one-year Level 3 training in CMR imaging at the Royal Brompton Hospital in London in the United Kingdom.
“Hopefully, I could be able to contribute in helping expand available options for heart care in the Philippines especially since this imaging modality is not yet widely available in the country,” Bantolo said.
CMR is a type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that uses magnetic fields to produce detailed images of the heart.
According to the American Health Association, CMR is used to look into heart structure and function and complex heart conditions.
The certification evaluates a cardiologist’s knowledge and skills in cardiac MRI imaging, composed of a written assessment and a practical skills evaluation.
Bantolo, a former Varsitarian Science and Technology editor, finished her undergraduate degree in medical technology and doctor of medicine degree at UST.
The exam, held online on Nov. 7, logged a passing rate of 85.55%.
The European association provides training, certification, and standards for cardiac imaging professionals worldwide.
