The assessment of diagnostic imaging technologies: a policy perspective.

Diagnostic imaging technologies are essential in health care but have high costs and poorly defined benefits. Formulation and implementation of policy on their procurement and use is made difficult by the complexity of the diagnostic process, and the limitations of available data and assessment methodology. Informed policy decisions will need to be based on a synthesis of imperfect data from a variety of perspectives, and supplemented by effective dissemination and feedback of information. A list of attributes for consideration in the policy formulation process is presented.