Cost modeling as a technology assessment tool for radiology department capital equipment acquisitions.

Changes reshaping the healthcare delivery system impact capital equipment acquisition decisions within radiology departments. During an era of rapid technological advancement, acquisition decisions often favor new imaging technology with an emphasis on volume and revenue increases. With a slowdown or plateau in new imaging technology and significant changes in the healthcare delivery structure, greater emphasis is now being given to productivity and quality improvement investments. Such investments are aimed at reducing labor and material operating costs through capital investment in electronic alternatives, such as the digital viewing and storage of diagnostic images in lieu of film. This shift in emphasis presents a dilemma for radiology departments because it is often more difficult to show a quality and productivity improvement justification. One approach is to use a formal ¿technology assessment¿ (TA) process wherein a manager considers changes in processes, labor, equipment, space, and consumables, and then assesses that impact on cost, utilization, quality of care, and other factors. A cost model is a useful tool in this process. A review of a number of real world experiences demonstrates the benefits of more timely and informed capital equipment investment decisions. While the direct savings may not entirely offset such investments, TA analysis also evaluates in tangible benefits that may not be quantifiable in economic terms. Both tangible cost savings and intangible benefits need to be weighed against the net investment in a new technology.