Structuring freestanding diagnostic imaging centers for profitability

Many hospitals have or are contemplating establishing freestanding diagnostic imaging centers with members of their medical staff. Some earlier joint ventures between hospitals and their physicians have not met expectations or financial projections. This article describes guidelines for evaluating the operating performance of freestanding imaging centers and is based on the author's assessment of several freestanding centers; it is not intended to depict the results of any one study or operational review. The areas addressed during an operations review should include: management and organizational structure, technologist and support staffing, equipment utilization, non-salary costs, and outside contracts.