Establishing a CT colonography service.

This article describes the steps involved in establishing a screening computed tomographic colonography (CTC) practice and integrating that practice within a gastroenterology practice. The standard operating procedures followed at the National Naval Medical Center's Colon Health Initiative are presented and are followed by a discussion of practical aspects of establishing a CTC practice, such as equipment specifications, CTC performance, and interpretation training requirements for radiologists and nonradiologists. Regulatory considerations involved in establishing a screening CTC program are examined along with the salient features of a CTC business plan. Finally, reimbursement issues, quality control, and the potential impact of screening CTC on colonoscopy practice are discussed.