Medicolegal aspects of breast imaging

The response to the public health challenge of screening women in this country for breast cancer is a goal to which all radiologists should direct their efforts. The decision to perform screening procedures, diagnostic procedures, or both will vary with the individual circumstances of one's practice. Careful planning and attention to certain parameters regarding such different types of practices will provide for a satisfying medical practice that is consistent with a sound risk-management profile. While no practice can be considered insulated from legal redress, physicians should not fear the legal consequences of appropriate and reasonable breast imaging service.