- Imaging grew more slowly than all Medicare Part B services between 2001 and 2003 and accounted for 16 percent of the growth in all Medicare Part B services between 1999 and 2003.
- Expanding the applications of diagnostic imaging has contributed to the growth in these services and is generally safer than the more invasive techniques they are replacing.
- Self-referral is not the key driver of growth; some of the highest-growing areas of diagnostic imaging are controlled by radiologists who do not self-refer.
- Research and experience have shown that, with proper training, cardiologists and other specialists can adequately perform certain diagnostic imaging services.
- Any policy restrictions limiting the use of ultrasound by specialists will be frustrated by the fact that radiologists currently are in short supply and that most are working at capacity.
Key Findings of the Lewin Group
By Leslie Champlin
4/8/2005
