ISSN:
1438-1435
Keywords:
Ultrasound
;
Telemedicine
;
Feasibility
;
Managed care
;
Financial analysis
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract We present a cost comparison of contracts to provide obstetric and gynecologic ultrasound (US) services to a managed care provider group (MCPG) and discuss the long-term implications of off-site monitoring of US procedures by video/voice technology to radiologists in competing for managed care contracts. During a 19-month period, 1,741 ultrasound examinations were performed for a MCPG in a clinic located 7 miles from our institution. The costs of different arrangements to provide this service and a 5-year cost analysis are provided. Based on the reported obstetric and gynecologic US caseload, annualized first year cost to the MCPG under the current contract was $183,945, compared with $252,000 under a prior contract. Without a contract, the cost would be $325,907. Our analysis shows that the use of the citywide fiberoptic network for remote monitoring of US examinations enables US radiologists to compete for managed care contracts and provides cost savings to payors.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01548184
Permalink
