Research by Pradipta Debnath MD, Shireen Hayatghaibi PhD, Andrew Trout MD, and Rama Ayyala MD aims to demonstrate that a new CPT code for rapid magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol can reduce costs to patients.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1546144024005210?via%3Dihub
Appendicitis is one of the most common surgical admissions for abdominal pain to the emergency department. Imaging is necessary to diagnose appendicitis. Traditionally, ultrasound is used to diagnose appendicitis because it is readily available and cost-effective. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC) uses a rapid MRI protocol for appendicitis that takes less than 5 minutes to complete. Current insurance billing systems do not utilize a CPT code for rapid MRIs. Currently, insurance files a CPT code for a full abdominal MRI. Dr. Debnath and colleagues suggest that time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC), an accounting method, can estimate the cost of a rapid MRI demonstrating a lower provider cost. The study’s objective is to influence the use of a new CPT code so other hospitals around the country will implement a similar MRI-first approach to diagnosing appendicitis.
Carey Eiser is an anesthesia nurse in Radiology's MRI division at Cincinnati Children’s. A KU graduate from Scott City, Kansas, Carey loves learning, connecting with diverse cultures, and enjoys outdoor activities like tennis and golf. Her passion for helping others led to a mission trip to Swaziland, Africa. Currently pursuing graduate studies at Xavier University, she finds joy in continuous learning.
Meredith Towbin is a freelance copy editor and writer. She has copyedited the Department of Radiology’s blog since it launched. She also works as a copy editor for the home improvement website BobVila.com. Her writing has been featured on HuffPost as well as other writing sites.
Glenn Miñano is a media specialist in the Department of Radiology, providing graphic design, photography, printing, video services, and administration of the department’s online properties. His works have been published in several medical articles, such as the American Journal of Radiology and the American Institute of Ultrasound. He has been providing these services to the Radiology Department since 1996.
