Providing professional mammography services: financial analysis

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Economics
• Radiology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Mammography is a critical tool for breast cancer screening and diagnosis.
• Understanding the financial viability of mammography services is essential for maintaining access to care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a financial analysis of mammography services.
• To assess if economic drivers align with public expectations for mammography care.

Main Methods:

• Financial survey of seven university-based mammography programs (1997-1998).
• Data collection on revenue, costs, and procedure volume.
• Activity-based costing analysis for specific mammography procedures.

Main Results:

• All surveyed institutions experienced financial losses in mammography services.
• A negative contribution margin (revenue < direct expenses) was identified.
• High volumes of diagnostic mammograms significantly contributed to financial losses.

Conclusions:

• Current reimbursement rates for mammography, especially diagnostic, are insufficient.
• Increased reimbursement is necessary to reflect the resources required for accurate and accessible mammography services.
• Financial sustainability is crucial for the future of breast imaging.