Trust to limit ‘non-essential’ CT scans as deficit rises

A Yorkshire acute trust is reviewing its use of diagnostic scans with a view to “limiting non-essential procedures” as it tries to bring down its deficit, according to internal messages sent to staff.

The message, sent to staff and seen by HSJ, says: “The trust should identify ways to reduce spending on clinical supplies. Reviewing diagnostic usage and limiting non-essential procedures, such as CT scans, would significantly cut costs.”

A spokesman stressed the message also said “financial targets should never come at the expense of patient safety and quality care”.

Katharine Halliday, president of the Royal College of Radiologists, told HSJ that scans were “certainly not the area to target for cost savings.”

She added that demand for diagnostics was being pushed up by the introduction of new tests and treatments, patient and staff expectations, and anxieties over litigation.

Dr Halliday said: “For instance, in the case of strokes, options were once limited, but now effective management begins with accurate imaging.

“Early diagnostic tests are essential in identifying patients who can be safely discharged, benefiting both patients and alleviating pressure on hospital beds.

“… Although not every diagnostic test is necessary, using CT scans where appropriate leads to faster, improved treatments and more efficient hospital operations. This is certainly not the area to target for cost savings.”

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Source: HSJ, 3 October 2024