Inappropriate imaging: Why it matters, why it happens, what can be done

Authors

Richard Mendelson, University of Notre Dame AustraliaFollow
Phillip J. Bairstow, University of Notre Dame AustraliaFollow

Publication Details

Mendelson, R., & Bairstow, P. J. (2010). Inappropriate imaging: Why it matters, why it happens, what can be done. Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Oncology, 54(3), 173-177. doi:10.1111/j.1754-9485.2010.02173.x

Abstract

Diagnostic imaging (DI) accounts for about 15% of the Medicare budget in Australia, and this figure is increasing. The technologies that drive this increase continue to become more complex. It is difficult enough for imaging specialists, let alone referrers, to keep up-to-date with the appropriate methods of investigation of a particular clinical scenario. In this context, there is a real danger that investigations will become technology driven rather than based on clinical need and patient benefit.

Keywords

peer-reviewed