Dear Women's Imaging Insider,
According to a women's health advocacy group, the U.S. has failed to meet its own basic, federally mandated goals for female health, except in two areas -- dental check-ups and mammograms. Another survey, from an association of cancer treatment centers, found that many of the group's members have invested in computer-aided detection systems and biopsy tools in order to optimize their comprehensive breast care programs.
The upgrades are a pat on the back for the breast imaging community. Unfortunately, such high praise doesn't seem to translate into higher reimbursement rates. As breast imaging continues to grow as a specialty with new and better technology, the reimbursement system is not keeping up, making it progressively more difficult for mammographers to do their jobs. There is always a temptation to cut costs by lowering quality.
But the situation isn't completely hopeless, according to Dr. Michael Linver, director of mammography at X-Ray Associates of New Mexico in Albuquerque. In a talk at the 2004 American Roentgen Ray Society meeting, Linver shared some basic strategies for maximizing reimbursement while still offering women the best care possible. From breaking the ICD codes to haggling with HMOs, read more about Linver's process here.
Also, check in with our Women's Imaging Digital Community for the latest news on breast MRI, a case report on the adverse effects of gold in uterine fibroid embolization, and the relationship between tamoxifen and breast density.
