Onsite medical imaging equipment concerns researchers

Owning or leasing medical equipment was more likely to occur at larger group practices with more than 50 physicians, where 56% own or lease clinical lab equipment, 62% own or lease X-ray machines, and 53% own or lease advanced imaging equipment such as CT or MRI scanners. At these facilities, equipment can be used more consistently and costs recouped more quickly, a new report concludes. The data, from the Center for Studying Health System Change's 2008 Health Tracking Physician Survey, was released last Wednesday. Under health reform law, beginning January 1 physicians are required to disclose their financial interest when referring Medicare and Medicaid patients for certain advanced imaging services, including MRI and CT scans, within their practices, and must also provide patients with a list of alternative suppliers.