Economics

This channel highlights factors that impact hospital and healthcare economics and revenue. This includes news on healthcare policies, reimbursement, marketing, business plans, mergers and acquisitions, supply chain, salaries, staffing, and the implementation of a cost-effective environment for patients and providers.

Provider participation in Medicare rose 6.3% over 10 years, peaking in 2019
A new study published in JAMA, which looked at fee-for-service Medicare records from 2013–2023, found that overall participation has trended upward. However, the details paint a complicated picture.
Report: ACA premiums to jump 30%, CMS documents show
The Washington Post reported that it reviewed documents from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, confirming that the cost of medical coverage is set to spike for 17 million Americans. Open enrollment for coverage through Affordable Care Act exchanges begins on Nov. 1.
PSMA-PET imaging not the most cost-effective option for many prostate cancer patients
The exam effectively helps providers manage patients’ treatment options, but for some, the costs associated with those treatments may negate the value of its findings.
Radiology groups rail against additional tariffs on imaging devices
RSNA, RadNet, the RBMA and Japanese imaging leaders all recently spoke out against the possibility of more fees on device imports.
Proposed tax on billionaires in California would generate $100B for Medicaid, backers say
The ballot measure was recently sent to the state attorney general’s office for approval. Once cleared, supporters can begin collecting signatures for its inclusion in the 2026 elections. The proposed law has the backing of one of the largest labor unions in the state.

Cardiologists enthusiastic as House passes bill to ramp up valvular heart disease research

It is now the Senate’s turn to consider this popular legislation. Sens. Mitch McConnell and Kyrsten Sinema have introduced a companion bill.

RadNet expands on East Coast, Solis Mammography’s execution risk, plus more company news

Also, vRad expands artificial intelligence pact, and practice leaders share their advice for navigating interviews during corporatization talks.

American medical and hospital associations file suit over surprise billing provision opposed by radiologists

AMA and AHA attorneys filed the complaint against the Biden administration Thursday in the D.C. district court.

Physicians could save $641M per year by prescribing generic CVD medications

In addition to cost savings, researchers noted, more affordable medications are also associated with improving adherence rates.

Cardiologists support legislation that would limit costly Medicare cuts

The American College of Cardiology is one of many physician organizations urging Congress to stop impending Medicare cuts before they become a reality.

healthcare value value-based care money dollar

Female radiologists earn nearly $1M less than males during a 40-year career

Imaging ranks fourth among the top five highest medical specialty pay gaps, surpassed only by anesthesiology, OB-GYN and orthopedic surgery.

Empowering radiologists to track referral trends using 'do-it-yourself' business intelligence tools

Info that was previously only privy to operations staff could change rads' behavior, incentivizing them to increase interactions with referrers.

‘Stalking horse bidder’ submits preliminary offer to rescue bankrupt community hospital

The 106-bed acute care hospital said the "much needed" capital will allow it to keep the doors open and continue serving patients.

Economics

Provider participation in Medicare rose 6.3% over 10 years, peaking in 2019

Report: ACA premiums to jump 30%, CMS documents show

PSMA-PET imaging not the most cost-effective option for many prostate cancer patients

Radiology groups rail against additional tariffs on imaging devices

Proposed tax on billionaires in California would generate $100B for Medicaid, backers say