Radiation From Medical Scans Soaring

“Radiation From Medical Scans Soaring” not only relies on inaccurate information, but communicates a false impression about computed tomography (CT) that must be corrected.

First, the article cites an assertion by Dr. Fred Mettler Jr. that “The biggest chunk of [new procedures in the last several decades] is CT scanning, which has been growing at better than 10 percent a year…” This statistic is inaccurate. The best data available is from the Medicare program. Analysis of Medicare claims data shows growth in CT was 1.1 percent from 2007 to 2008, which is less than the 1.9 percent growth from 2006 to 2007. Clearly growth in CT has been severely reduced in the last few years, and in fact does not approach the numbers cited by Dr. Mettler.

Secondly, the author fails to take into account the commitment manufacturers of imaging equipment have made and the actions these companies have taken to reduce exposure to radiation. In fact, imaging manufacturers have done a remarkable job innovating imaging technology to minimize the radiation dose associated with these life-saving scans.

It’s ironic that this article is published at the very same time Congress is considering a new tax on imaging manufacturers that could greatly inhibit bringing innovative products, such as those that deliver even less radiation, to market. Innovative research and development will continue to improve the diagnostic effectiveness of vital scans while reducing radiation exposure. Slapping an overly burdensome excise tax on imaging manufacturers is misguided public policy.

Policies that spur innovation, coupled with a roll-out of robust appropriateness criteria for the use of medical imaging, as well as a digital exchange that allows scans to be securely shared between health systems is the best way to drive proper utilization of imaging, to maintain patient access to life-saving diagnostics and to ensure the development of next-generation equipment that is both safer and more accurate at detecting disease.

We all agree that limiting exposure to radiation is paramount, and it is vitally important that patients and physicians talk about radiation exposure if a patient has had repeated CT scans. But we must carefully weigh any risks associated with these scans against the incredible diagnostic promise they hold for patients all across the country who deserve access to the highest quality and most advanced care available.

Dave Fisher

Managing Director

MITA

Dave Fisher of DC 8:56PM October 28, 2009