New Web Site Offers Primer for Crucial Imaging Standards
It's no secret that the exponential growth of diagnostic imaging procedures, much of it either unnecessary or performed in a substandard manner, has produced a professional crisis for radiology and a financial predicament for Medicare and third-party payers.
The American College of Radiology has made the the inappropriate utilization of imaging one of its top priorities. However, while ACR members are familiar with the reasons why imaging should be left to those best trained for the job, many government officials and third-party payers, as well as the American public, are unaware of the credible evidence that supports the ACR's position on this key issue.
In order to provide a clearinghouse for key information on imaging utilization and standards, the ACR has launched a new Web site, QualityImaging.org. This site will serve as the home for the Medical Excellence in Diagnostic Imaging Campaign (MEDIC). MEDIC's goal is to save taxpayers billions in Medicare costs and improve patient quality by establishing quality standards for advanced medical imaging.
"This new Web site is an important tool in our tireless efforts to control the unsustainable growth in inappropriate diagnostic imaging, thereby increasing the level of quality patient care and stemming the flood of Medicare dollars," said James P. Borgstede, MD, chair of the ACR Board of Chancellors. "The facts are on our side in this debate. However, it is critical that we get this information into the hands of those who ultimately make the final decision, notably legislators, government leaders, and the American public."
Recent studies have shown that quality standards, such as requiring certification to use advanced imaging equipment and requiring annual safety inspections of all equipment, could save Medicare about $5 billion over the next 10 years and significantly improve patient safety.
The new site provides visitors with in-depth information on the rising cost of Medicare, the problems associated with the excessive growth in advanced imaging, and MEDIC's solutions to improve patient quality and save taxpayer dollars. The Web site also offers links to news, important studies, and journal articles addressing the topic.
Also featured is a downloadable brochure titled "Understanding Radiology," which provides critical information about quality and safety in medical imaging and explains the key role of the radiologist in diagnostic imaging.
Visit the new Web site today and sign up to support MEDIC and help spread the word on the importance of quality diagnostic imaging.