Does breast biopsy marker cost and availability influence utilisation in radiology practice?

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Devices
• Health Economics

Background:

• National guidelines recommend breast biopsy markers (BBMs) for specific patient cases.
• This study investigates the influence of BBM cost and availability on their utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate how the cost and availability of breast biopsy markers (BBMs) affect their use in clinical practice.
• To identify potential disparities in BBM access and utilization based on practice setting.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was distributed to radiologists specializing in breast imaging within the RANZCR network.
• Survey questions covered radiologist demographics and factors influencing BBM use, including cost and availability.

Main Results:

• 92% of participants reported routine BBM availability; however, private practice radiologists were less likely to have them readily available.
• 22% of radiologists noted that BBM cost influenced their choice between core biopsy and fine needle aspirate.
• 47% reported BBM costs being passed to patients, exclusively in private or mixed practice settings.

Conclusions:

• BBM cost and availability demonstrably influence biopsy type selection and overall BBM utilization.
• Radiologists in private or mixed practices face greater challenges with BBM availability and cost pass-through.
• This situation may disadvantage patients seeking care at private radiology providers for conditions requiring BBM insertion.