An interesting trend was examined in the December issue of JACR — CT ownership in nonradiologist specialties.
When we hear about anything related to equipment ownership, imaging growth, or self-referral, primary care is typically not top of mind. But according to the study authors from Thomas Jefferson University, the nonradiologist specialty with the highest growth in CT procedures in 2006 was, in fact, primary care. Moreover, nonradiologist ownership of CT increased by 263 percent from 2001-2006.
There are of course many implications for radiologists. For one, market share — and the rapid pace at which nonradiologists are gaining it. Also, rising opportunities for self-referral, radiation safety concerns, and costs to the health care system.
The full article which appears in the December issue of JACR can be read online by clicking here and downloading the PDF.
What are your thoughts about this study and the results? What ownership/leasing arrangements have you seen that support these findings? I look forward to your comments.
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