Ultrasound self-referral does not increase utilization in pediatric urology.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Urology
• Radiologic Imaging
• Medical Economics

Background:

• Rising costs of radiologic imaging necessitate evaluation of utilization practices.
• Pediatric urologists' management of primary hydronephrosis involves diagnostic imaging.
• In-office ultrasound availability may influence imaging decisions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine ultrasound utilization by pediatric urologists with access to in-office imaging.
• To compare ultrasound ordering frequency for primary hydronephrosis management.
• To assess the impact of imaging location (in-office vs. outside) on utilization.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cross-sectional study of children aged 5 years or younger with isolated hydronephrosis.
• Evaluation of ultrasound utilization frequency based on orders placed by overseeing physicians.
• Comparison of imaging frequency for ultrasounds performed in-office versus at outside radiology facilities.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in overall ultrasound ordering frequency was observed between in-office and outside facilities (0.33 vs. 0.38 studies/patient/month).
• Ultrasound utilization rates across low, intermediate, and high grades of hydronephrosis showed no significant variations based on imaging location.
• A total of 1,816 ultrasounds were analyzed, with 1,102 performed in-office and 714 at outside centers.

Conclusions:

• In-office ultrasound availability does not lead to increased utilization for primary hydronephrosis in children.
• Ethical and honest use of self-owned radiologic equipment is feasible.
• Self-owned equipment can enhance monitoring, convenience for physicians and patients, and potentially reduce healthcare costs.