Most of the time, when we talk about major benefits in terms of using digital radiography, the main points that are brought up are efficiency and quality of images. However, there are also some other practical concerns that are nudging things towards this medium as well. For example, in the last few years, there have been some major changes regarding the practice of x-ray reimbursement when it comes to traditional computed radiography. When we look at these in detail, this may be the true change that steers people towards digital radiography once and for all.

The beginning of this major change dates back to 2016, and the signing of the Consolidated Appropriations Act. Among the details of this nearly 2000-page document was an incentive designed to get more people to adopt digital radiography. The reason for that was to minimize patient exposure to radiation. However, in practice, the change was less of an incentive towards digital radiography and more of a net negative for conventional radiography.

When the x-ray reimbursement changes were made, there was a cut of 20% for any reimbursement claims made on analog equipment from Medicare and Medicaid. This change is unlikely to affect a lot of medical practices out there, as analog equipment has been largely phased out at this point. However, computerized equipment is still in place, and claims made on x-rays done on that type of equipment will see a cut of 7%, with the increase going to 10% in 2023.

One thing that’s important to mention is that x-ray reimbursement isn’t the only example of the government using Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement cuts to try and push the adoption of new technology. The elimination of mammogram G-codes in 2015 is another example. However, general practitioners and medical imaging centers alike need to consider the financial and time inefficiencies computed radiography now presents if they are still on the fence about upgrading.

The major change towards computed radiography and x-ray reimbursement is part of the major sea change as digital radiography becomes the new gold standard. Even if you need a little time to adjust or save funds before upgrading, it’s become much more clear that companies need to work towards upgrading. If you’re not sure what the best match for your business is going to be, a good first step is having a consultation with companies like JPI Healthcare Solutions.