Dear Imaging Center Insider,
For the last Imaging Center Insider of 2008, we're highlighting the controversy over growing use of nuclear myocardial perfusion imaging, or MPI, which is a powerful tool in a physician's arsenal in the battle against heart disease. But it's costly and, in the current healthcare environment, radiologists are concerned that how MPI is used -- and by whom -- may contribute to inflated imaging costs.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia compared nuclear MPI use trends among radiologists and cardiologists, presenting their findings at the recent 2008 RSNA meeting in Chicago. You may be surprised by what they found. Click here for the story, to which you have access before the rest of our AuntMinnie.com members.
When you're finished, check out the rest of our Imaging Center Digital Community news, including a study from the RSNA meeting that describes how geography affects imaging use rates. Also find out why a New Jersey radiology firm is suing a local hospital network and a national insurance carrier, and discover why reimbursement cuts could lead to more senior hip fractures.
As always, if you have a comment or report to share about any aspect of diagnostic imaging practice, management, administration, regulation, or financing, please contact me at [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you.
Happy holidays and best wishes for the coming year.
