Utilization of computed tomography scanners and the health planning issue: a process data summary

Studies were made of the computed tomography (CT) scanning process at three hospitals. The data collected, while of interest to hospital administrators and radiologists, are particularly significant in view of the current structure of health planning guuielines. The data show clearly that the utilization potential of a particular CT scanner is a function of patient demand, scan time, the ratio of head to body procedures, and medical practice insofar as contrast medium administration is concerned. This paper summarizes the results of the hospital studies and documents the implications of the data for health planning guidelines.