Think twice before buying advanced imaging equipment in light of cuts

Why This Topic Matters

The article helps readers gauge whether advanced imaging remains financially viable under changing Medicare payment assumptions and highlights policy developments that could affect imaging services and practice operations.

Article Sections

1. Medicare cuts

   Introduces the reimbursement change affecting advanced imaging and frames the potential operational impact for practices and facilities.

2. 90%: Back to the future

   Explains the utilization-rate change and places it in the context of prior CMS and federal policy discussions.

3. Only the beginning?

   Discusses the possibility of additional payment reductions and the broader financial pressure on imaging providers.

4. Differentials and Stark law

   Reviews other policy areas that may affect imaging economics, including site-of-service payment differences and physician self-referral rules.