Dear AuntMinnie Member,
Are you planning to replace your existing PACS network? Don't make a move without reading this week's new column by Michael J. Cannavo in our Straight Talk from the PACSman series.
Due mostly to economic pressures, PACS installations have been lasting longer than the standard five-year life span as imaging facilities try to stretch out their investment. As a result, PACS upgrades and updates are growing in popularity.
Mike's column provides a road map for any facility thinking about going the update/upgrade route rather than full replacement. Check it out by clicking here, or visit our Imaging Informatics Community at informatics.auntminnie.com.
Nonphysicians order more scans
In other news, healthcare networks have been trying to extend scarce resources by giving more responsibilities to nonphysician professionals such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants. But the move could be backfiring.
That's because these nonphysician professionals seem to be ordering more imaging exams than physicians typically do, according to a new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine. Researchers from the American College of Radiology's Harvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute analyzed ordering patterns in more than 650,000 Medicare episodes of care in 2010 and 2011.
They found that nonphysician staff members were 30% more likely to order imaging studies than primary care physicians. That compares to an estimated 15% cost savings if more patient encounters are shifted to nonphysicians.
Read more about the study by clicking here, or visit our Imaging Leaders Community at leaders.auntminnie.com.
See you in Chicago
This will be our last Letter from the Editor before the start of RSNA 2014 in Chicago. Our daily coverage begins on Sunday, November 30, so be sure to check back in our RADCast @ RSNA section for all the news from radiology's centennial celebration. Looking forward to seeing you there, and happy Thanksgiving!
