Fewer magnetic resonance imaging, computerized tomography and cardiac nuclear scan referrals are contributing to the slower overall healthcare inflation rates, according to AAPC.
According to data from the Journal of American College Radiology, spending on diagnostic imaging by Medicare Part B dropped from $11.91 billion in 2006 to $9.46 billion in 2010.
Providers attribute the drop to the increasing call for spending cuts and reduced cost of care, according to the report. Imaging makes up 5 percent of healthcare costs, and in recent years Medicare has cut what it reimburses for MRIs.
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According to data from the Journal of American College Radiology, spending on diagnostic imaging by Medicare Part B dropped from $11.91 billion in 2006 to $9.46 billion in 2010.
Providers attribute the drop to the increasing call for spending cuts and reduced cost of care, according to the report. Imaging makes up 5 percent of healthcare costs, and in recent years Medicare has cut what it reimburses for MRIs.
More Articles on Coding, Billing and Collections:
Physician Survey: 27% Would Drop Low-Paying Insurers Despite Patient Population
Senate Dems' Budget Would Repeal SGR, Restore Lost Medicare Payments
Thousand Oaks Radiology Selects McKesson for Revenue Management