Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs)—including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions—are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for over 70% of global deaths [1] . Early and accurate diagnosis is essential to improving outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, and ensuring efficient resource utilization. Among diagnostic tools, chest imaging—particularly digital radiography (DR) and computed tomography (CT)—plays a pivotal role in detecting life-threatening conditions such as lung cancer, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, and coronary artery disease [2] - [4] .

In primary care settings, GPs are often the first point of contact for patients and are responsible for initial assessment, diagnosis, and triage. With the growing availability of chest imaging technologies even in resource-limited areas, GPs are increasingly utilizing these tools to aid in diagnosis [5] . However, despite the widespread use of DR and CT, diagnostic inaccuracies remain common, largely due to limited training in radiology among GPs [6] . This gap in expertise can lead to missed or delayed diagnoses of critical conditions, resulting in worse patient outcomes and increased healthcare burdens [7] .

This article addresses the urgent need to improve GPs’ chest imaging interpretation skills as a global health priority. By enhancing diagnostic accuracy, reducing misdiagnosis, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, we can improve patient care and promote health equity worldwide.

A narrative review of the literature was conducted to identify relevant articles published between 2000 and 2024. Electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, were searched using keywords such as “chest imaging”, “general practitioners”, “misdiagnosis”, “artificial intelligence”, “primary care”, and “radiology training.” Articles were selected based on relevance to the topic, study design, and publication in peer-reviewed journals. Both observational and interventional studies were included, with priority given to systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and high-impact clinical trials.

To address these challenges, we propose the following evidence-based strategies:

Enhancing GPs’ chest imaging skills has global relevance, particularly in LMICs—defined as nations with a gross national income per capita below $13205—where specialist shortages are severe [18] . Cost constraints in these regions may limit the adoption of advanced AI or tele-radiology solutions, necessitating scalable, low-cost training alternatives. By empowering GPs with advanced diagnostic capabilities, we can:

1) Measuring the impact of training programs on diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.

2) Developing culturally tailored educational materials for diverse healthcare systems.

3) Assessing the cost-effectiveness of AI integration in primary care radiology [19] .

Longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate the long-term benefits of improved imaging interpretation on healthcare systems.

This narrative review is based on existing literature and does not present original data. The recommendations may not be universally applicable due to variations in healthcare systems, resources, and training standards across regions. The case studies, while based on real clinical scenarios, are simplified for illustrative purposes and may not capture all complexities of diagnostic decision-making.

Enhancing GPs’ chest imaging interpretation skills is a cost-effective, scalable solution to reduce misdiagnosis and mortality worldwide. As frontline healthcare providers, GPs with advanced radiological proficiency can ensure timely interventions, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare burdens. Urgent policy action and investment in training infrastructure are needed to implement these strategies globally.

Fumu Wang: Study conception, manuscript drafting, critical revision. Haiming Wang: Literature review, manuscript feedback. Both authors approved the final manuscript.

Not applicable (original data not collected).