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Soft-copy sonography: cost reduction sensitivity analysis in a pediatric hospital
S Don1, M J Albertina, D Ammann
1Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|March 10, 1998
Summary
Transitioning pediatric radiology to soft-copy sonography interpretation can significantly reduce costs by improving technologist efficiency. However, savings are only realized if the number of sonograms increases to offset elimination of film printing and potential staff reductions.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Health Economics
Background:
- Traditional pediatric radiology departments rely on laser-printed film for sonogram interpretation.
- This process incurs costs related to film, processing, and associated labor.
- Evaluating digital workflows, such as soft-copy interpretation, is crucial for cost-efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the cost-effectiveness of soft-copy (computer workstation) sonogram interpretation compared to laser-printed film in a pediatric radiology setting.
- To analyze the financial impact of improved technologist efficiency and potential staff adjustments.
Main Methods:
- A cost analysis model was developed, comparing the expenses of a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) with potential savings from eliminating film.
- The model incorporated historic trends, future reimbursement estimates, and analyzed the effects of varying study volumes and technologist staffing.
- Theoretic models of growth were used to project long-term financial outcomes.
Main Results:
- Soft-copy interpretation reduced examination time by 6 minutes 32 seconds per study, freeing up 143 minutes daily for additional examinations.
- This efficiency gain could allow for five additional sonograms per day, potentially equating to one half of a full-time technologist position.
- Over five years, with anticipated growth, savings exceeded $606,000. Even with minimal growth, savings were over $96,000. Eliminating film alone without increased volume resulted in a loss.
Conclusions:
- Soft-copy sonography offers significant cost-saving potential through enhanced technologist efficiency and increased throughput.
- Realizing these financial benefits is contingent upon an increase in sonogram volume to offset film elimination costs and potential staffing adjustments.
- Without increased volume, cost reductions through staff reduction alone are insufficient to achieve overall savings.