An analysis of medical imaging costs in military treatment facilities

Abstract

This joint applied project examines costs of medical imaging within Continental United States military treatment facilities to determine cost effectiveness when compared to civilian facilities and determine whether there are differences among regions of the United States and whether there are differences among the branches of service. Historical data utilized to conduct analysis were collected from the Military Health System Management Analysis and Reporting Tool (M2), the Defense Medical Logistics Standard Support system (DMLSS), the CHAMPUS National Pricing System (CMAC), and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services website (CMS.gov). Our conclusions regarding overall cost of radiology services at military facilities is hampered by the use of average cost per test as a basis for analysis. However, greater consolidation of radiologic imaging assets and increased volume at military facilities can do nothing but improve the cost effectiveness of insourcing this function.