A financial analysis of digital image acquisition for portable and table-top radiography.

The use of photostimulable phosphors as a method for obtaining digital radiographic images during traditional portable and table-top radiography has become a subject of increased interest and controversy in recent years. Proponents of this technology argue that a Picture Archival and Communications System--or PACS--is now within the grasp of most medical communities. However, there still exists concerns relating to the financial and economic effectiveness of this technological development. Does direct digital image acquisition during portable and table-top radiography present a financial benefit to the average health care facility? An in-depth financial analysis of the costs incurred by computed radiographic imaging provides sufficient information to state that financial benefits are a function of exposure-related repeat procedure volumes which can be reduced or eliminated through the use of this new technology. Repeat procedure volumes must be reduced by at least 6,000 procedures if the health care facility intends to avoid a financial loss from the use of photostimulable phosphor technology during portable and table-top radiography.