Frequency of radiology self-referral in abdominal computed tomographic scans and the implied cost

A type of radiology self-referral is possible and can add considerable cost to patient care. In our study, an average of $74 of extra imaging was suggested for each patient who received an abdominal CT. If this holds up nationwide, Medicare can expect at least $226 million worth of radiology self-referrals per year on patients getting abdominal CT.