The SPECT-MPI study identified the major problem areas for inappropriate utilization. Topping the list was the use of MPI to detect CAD in asymptomatic patients at low risk for coronary heart disease; this accounted for 45% of all inappropriate tests and 6% of total testing.
The five most common inappropriate-use indications accounted for 92% of all inappropriate tests. If all testing done for these five inappropriate reasons were to be eliminated, total imaging volume would be reduced by 12.4% (J. Am. Coll. Cardiol. 2010;55:156-62).
"Imaging in Focus" is an ACC-sponsored national quality improvement initiative aimed at helping cardiovascular physicians to reduce inappropriate imaging in a collaborative, nonconfrontational way through the use of webinars, blogs, and other tools. It’s designed as a learning community whose stated goal is to achieve a 50% reduction in inappropriate cardiovascular imaging in 3 years. Dr. Hendel announced some good news: The program has already resoundingly surpassed that target. In just its first year of operation, imaging centers participating in Imaging in Focus reduced their inappropriate imaging by 50% from a baseline rate of 10%.
"This is very exciting," he said.
None of the speakers had relevant financial interests.