David C Levin1, Vijay M Rao. 1. Center for Research on Utilization of Imaging Services, Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Jefferson Medical College, Main 1090, 132 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. david.levin@jeffersonhospital.org
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This article reviews the evidence on the relationship between recent increases in utilization of diagnostic imaging and self-referral. The evidence shows that self-referral invariably leads to higher utilization and the attendant higher costs. CONCLUSION: Because most physicians do not own advanced imaging equipment, their own best interests are being thwarted by the practice of self-referral. Congress and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services should restrict the in-office ancillary services exception to the Stark laws as it applies to advanced imaging.
OBJECTIVE: This article reviews the evidence on the relationship between recent increases in utilization of diagnostic imaging and self-referral. The evidence shows that self-referral invariably leads to higher utilization and the attendant higher costs. CONCLUSION: Because most physicians do not own advanced imaging equipment, their own best interests are being thwarted by the practice of self-referral. Congress and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services should restrict the in-office ancillary services exception to the Stark laws as it applies to advanced imaging.
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