CT Utilization: A Case Study in Iran based on ACR Appropriateness Criteria.

Abstract

Lue to the importance ot controlling healthcare costs and appropriate utiliza- tion of imaging, this study evaluates CT scan utilization based on the ACR appropriateness criteria in patients at Kashan University of Medical Sciences Tertiary Care University Hospital (KAUMS-TCUH) in Kashan, Iran. Of CT scans performed, imaging proce- dures were rated as inappropriate (9.1%), may be appropriate (11.9%), and appropriate (78.9%). Findings revealed that the highest rates for appropriate and inappropriate requests pertained to trauma (101, 87.8%) and ataxia (8, 34.8%) patients. Findings demonstrated that CT scan utilization is not appropriate in Kashan. Of the total rates of CT scans, almost one tenth are in the inappropriate and may be appropriate groups. This suggests immediate actions to reduce the rates. For effective intervention based on the problematic area, a utilization commit- tee for resources should be established to regularly direct the CT scan utilization.