Overutilization in Medical Imaging

The most important contributing factor to the higher cost of health care in the United States of America is the overutilization of services, including a growth in medical imaging that reflects advancements in imaging technologies and their contribution to improved detection and diagnosis of disease and injury. A fraction of imaging studies, perhaps as much as one-third, may be inappropriate. Several approaches to addressing overutilization of medical imaging procedures are being explored, including the development of appropriateness criteria and referral guidelines for imaging procedures. This can help in the selection of procedures judged to be in the best interests of patient care, and requires improved communication and cooperation among practitioners. (author)