UHC sets new imaging accreditation requirement

Why This Topic Matters

The policy may affect reimbursement for practices that perform imaging services in-house, making accreditation status an operational and financial issue for affected providers.

Article Sections

1. Imaging accreditation requirement

   Overview of the payer policy change and the types of practice settings and services implicated. The section frames the scope of the new accreditation expectation and its timing.

2. Affected imaging modalities

   Broad coverage of the categories of imaging services referenced as part of the policy. It notes that several modalities are included and that one common imaging type is not listed.

3. What must be accredited

   General discussion of how accreditation applies across sites and service locations within a practice. It addresses the organizational scope of the requirement.

4. Recognized accreditation organizations

   Identification of the external organizations the payer will accept for accreditation. The section provides context for practice selection and implementation planning.

5. More payers likely to follow

   Commentary on the possibility that other payers may adopt similar expectations. The section places the policy in a broader payer trend context.

6. Expect expense & a tough process

   High-level discussion of the administrative effort, time, and cost associated with obtaining accreditation. It also highlights practice workflow considerations and preparation.

7. First step: Get educated on both the ACR and IAC programs

   Practical preparation guidance focused on learning about the available accreditation programs and planning ahead. The section emphasizes early implementation steps without detailing selection criteria.

8. Resources

   Links and references to the payer announcement and the organizations named in the article. This section serves as a source directory for follow-up information.