Computed tomographic scanning in New Hampshire

Computed tomographic (CT) scanning in New Hampshire is reviewed in terms of the following: type, distribution, and setting; practice, capacity and use; cost and reimbursement, planning and regulation. As of May 1979, New Hampshire had 4.7 CT scanners per million population. The location of existing scanners leaves certain population centers within the state somewhat distant from CT services. Administrative characteristics affecting individual scanner operations include: hours of operation; nonpatient time during the operational hours of CT scanner; and technical capability of CT scanner. During 1979 the three hospital based scanners in New Hampshire performed 6,100 scans. The task in planning is to develop criteria to determine where to have the most appropriate state-of-the-art scanner technology. Objectives and actions which should be used in health systems planning for CT scanning in New Hampshire are outlined