The orthopedist as clinical densitometrist: cost- and time-effectiveness

We tested the hypothesis that an orthopedic surgeon and his or her staff can efficiently and economically provide a bone densitometry service. This hypothesis reflects a philosophy that orthopedists should take a more active role in identifying patients at risk for osteoporosis. We evaluated the cost- and time-effectiveness of an orthopedic surgeon and his medical assistant in completing reports and related correspondence for dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scans conducted in an orthopedic subspecialty clinic. Cost analysis showed that completing 14 or 15 reports per month was required to break even and that completing up to 40 reports per month was a highly efficient and economic use of the surgeon's time.