ABSTRACT
Patterns of deployment and utilization of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging were studied with a Michigan Department of Public Health data base containing data regarding more than 218,000 patient visits. Michigan currently has 16 hospital-based fixed MR systems (magnets), 14 (13 operational) freestanding fixed magnets, and 11 (10 operational) mobile magnets operating at 45 host sites. The imaging volume for 1991 was approximately 127,000 procedures, with associated charges of $126,500,000. Central nervous system imaging accounted for 82.6% of procedure volume, with extremities accounting for another 12.9%. The average total charge per procedure ranged from $844 to $1,076, and the average professional charge per procedure ranged from $178 to $226. The annual throughput ranged from 1,356 to 7,480 procedures per magnet. Wide variation in many measures was observed both within and among hospital-based, freestanding, and mobile facility types. The use of computed tomography (CT) before MR imaging for the same diagnostic problem continues to be substantial (average, 44% for MR imaging of the head). Patterns of inpatient imaging and prior use of CT indicate that the technical benefit of mobile MR imaging should be investigated further.
Subject(s)
Databases, Factual , Magnetic Resonance Imaging , Ambulatory Care , Ambulatory Care Facilities , Certificate of Need , Costs and Cost Analysis , Hospitalization , Hospitals , Humans , Magnetic Resonance Imaging/economics , Magnetic Resonance Imaging/statistics & numerical data , Michigan , Public Health , Tomography, X-Ray ComputedABSTRACT
As part of an effort within Michigan to promote cost containment and equitably distribute hospital resources, the Acute Care Bed Need Methodology (ACBNM), a model for determining bed need based on normative use rates, was created. We describe herein the ACBNM, the associated interactive computer system, and the data base requirements, and make suggestions for improving the methodology. We also discuss the functions the ACBNM has served in Michigan and the role it could serve in future health planning efforts.
Subject(s)
Computers , Hospital Planning/methods , Age Factors , Aged , Bed Occupancy , Catchment Area, Health , Health Services Needs and Demand , Humans , Michigan , Models, TheoreticalABSTRACT
A study undertaken in Michigan from August 1968 to April 1970 showed that the county of residence was the most significant factor for determining pesticide residue levels in humans. Occupation, sex, and location of residence were also determined to be associated with blood residue levels. Residues of sigmaDDT and dieldrin were greater in persons 45 years or older. No relationships were detected between blood hemoglobin and blood residue values. In general, as the blood levels for glucose, cholesterol, uric acid, and creatinine increased, so did the levels of pesticide residues. However, when all variables were used, no equation could be developed which would reliably predict a blood residue level given these demographic characteristics.
