Radiology has been a common target in such efforts to reduce spending and prevent healthcare waste. But is such scrutiny warranted? 

Female patients and those with public insurance plans were much more likely than others to witness delays of 10 days or more, according to new research.

Experts underlined the importance of radiologist-patient communication, which can include building rapport, clear descriptions of procedures and taking time for questions. 

Such a "safety net" team also can help to reduce diagnostic errors due to missed and delayed diagnoses, Brigham and Women's experts detailed in JACR. 

Case Western Reserve University recently scored a $1.125 million grant from the National Science Foundation to help fuel its work, with a focus on MRI. 
 

“Providing clear guidance on when to order thyroid ultrasounds can help reduce unnecessary healthcare utilization and potential overtreatment," experts wrote. 

The latest example is the Michigan Institute of Urology, which is teaming with Prostate Centers USA to open IR Centers at MIU on Dec. 27. 

This small, low-cost practice change is a promising way to increase cancer screening participation, researchers detailed recently.