Neuroimaging clinics of North America
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The content and prose method of radiology reporting has remained essentially unchanged for more than 100 years. By leveraging current technologies, the radiology report has the potential to be a multifunctional document providing information in a number of areas including business analytics, quality assurance and safety, regulatory reporting, research and billing. Maturation and adoption of speech recognition, the development of radiology controlled terminologies and standardized reporting templates now allow for the introduction of structured reporting into the clinical setting.
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A conflict of interest occurs when an outside interest influences professional decisions regarding patient care, education, or research. It is important to recognize conflicts of interest and to report significant financial interests to the appropriate institutional official. When a significant financial interest conflicts with human subjects research, the investigator is typically prohibited from participating in the research. If the conflict does not affect human subjects research, in some instances a conflict of interest management plan can be developed that allows continued participation in the research.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2012
ReviewThe resource-based relative value scale and neuroradiology: ASNR's history at the RUC.
The Resource-Based Relative Value Scale (RBRVS) has been the defining algorithm for professional reimbursement of medical services since its introduction in 1992. This article reviews the history of the RBRVS, with an emphasis on the integral involvement of the radiology and neuroradiology communities. Appropriate reimbursement of radiology procedures has been chaperoned by physician volunteers and society staff attending Current Procedural Terminology Panel meetings and American Medical Association/Specialty Society RVS Update Committee (RUC) meetings. In recent years, governmental and RUC initiatives have created an unfavorable environment for neuroradiologists to maintain reimbursement levels seen previously.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2012
ReviewNational initiatives for measuring quality performance for the practicing neuroradiologist.
This article provides an overview of the national initiatives developed for monitoring and reporting quality performance measures. Included is a review of the Physician Quality Reporting System, the Hospital Outpatient Quality Data Reporting Program, and the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System, with specific emphasis on how these programs affect radiology practice. A practical review of these programs allows radiologists to gain further understanding of the economic and political influences on the daily practice of radiology today. The background and relevant features of each program are presented in this article.
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The paradox of the increased use of imaging without obvious evidence of improved health outcomes has led to calls for payment based on value rather than volume. Measurement of radiologists' performance is a key component of the measurement of value. The paradigm shift occurring in radiology and health care as a whole may seem daunting to the radiologist with the clamor for increasing accountability from payers and patients alike. However, it is through powerful tools such as performance measures in radiology and their accompanying incentive-based payment systems that practices can be improved and confidence of patients restored.