Optimizing diagnostic imaging through skills mix: costs and opportunities

Citation

McIntosh B (2017) Optimizing diagnostic imaging through skills mix: costs and opportunities. British Journal of Hospital Medicine, 78 (6), pp. 306-307. https://doi.org/10.12968/hmed.2017.78.6.306

Abstract
Increasing diagnostic capacity is a national priority to expedite the timeliness and appropriateness of patient treatment interventions. Imaging, encompassing a range of technologies including X-ray, Computer Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging and ultrasound, is a key diagnostic service and central to decision making in most, if not all, disease pathways. However, imaging is an expensive discipline accounting for an estimated 3-5% of the annual NHS budget. As a result, it is imperative that we maximize service efficiency while optimizing patient outcomes.

Keywords
Diagnostic imaging; Radiography; Skills mix; NHS

Notes
Output Type: Editorial

Journal
British Journal of Hospital Medicine: Volume 78, Issue 6