Donald G. Mitchell MD, Presenter: Consultant, CMC Contrast AB

1) Consider and minimize the potential the medicolegal risks of agreeing to review outside imaging studies, or failing to agree to review outside imaging studies, when asked to do so by attending physicians. 2) Approach requests to interpret outside examinations as an opportunity to add value to radiologists' professional services and to patient care. 3) Define the role of imaging consultant as an example of tertiary care. 4) Benefit from the experience of other imaging centers to successfully receive reimbursement for radiologic second opinion consultations.

Although our professional workflow has developed to conduct imaging examinations and issue reports of their interpretation, we are increasingly asked to interpret examinations performed at other institutions (outside examinations). This session will address common uncertainties regarding potential medicolegal risks inherent in how we respond to these requests. We will review the financial and ethical implications of providing this added service, emphasizing a trend away from "piece work" as defining our professional responsibilities. We will define the meaning of value added, to management, early diagnosis and prevention of disease. We will review the finite resource model of health dollars and the future role of each of us in using these efficiently. Finally, two specific experiences at different academic centers will be reviewed to reinforce these concepts.

Mitchell, D, Controversy Session: Overreading Outside Examinations: Controversies, Benefits and Pitfalls.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14002740.html