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Wilms tumor imaging: patient costs and protocol compliance
C W Carrico1, M D Cohen, J M Zerin
1Department of Radiology, James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University Medical Center, Indianapolis 46202-5200, USA.
Radiology
|September 1, 1997
Summary
Imaging costs for pediatric Wilms tumor patients are substantial, with significant potential for savings. Protocol compliance for follow-up imaging was suboptimal, indicating room for improvement in pediatric cancer care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Medical Imaging
- Health Economics
Background:
- Wilms tumor is a common pediatric kidney cancer.
- Diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role in Wilms tumor management.
- Understanding patient costs and protocol adherence is vital for optimizing care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess patient-incurred costs associated with imaging in pediatric Wilms tumor patients.
- To evaluate compliance with established imaging protocols during the National Wilms Tumor Study (NWTS) IV.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical and imaging records for 60 pediatric patients in NWTS IV.
- Analysis of initial and follow-up imaging costs and protocol compliance.
- Evaluation of three distinct levels of follow-up compliance.
Main Results:
- Total patient imaging costs amounted to $442,180 ($94,212 for initial, $347,968 for follow-up).
- Seventy-five percent of patients met initial protocol requirements.
- Follow-up compliance varied significantly (0%-80%), with no study achieving 100% compliance.
Conclusions:
- Imaging expenditures for pediatric Wilms tumor patients are considerable.
- Suboptimal adherence to follow-up imaging protocols was observed.
- Opportunities for cost savings and improved protocol compliance exist.