A Cost Analysis of Positron Emission Tomography

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Abstract
OBJECTIVE. Changes in regulations and improvements in reimbursement have propelled positron emission tomography (PET) into clinical use, making it increasingly important to understand the costs of this emerging service. Cost analyses are important tools to do this. Data published previously on these topics reflect assumptions that are no longer valid. The aim of this study was to determine the cost of developing and operating a PET facility and to evaluate whether a regional cyclotron serving several scanners reduces costs.MATERIALS AND METHODS. Financial data were collected on capital expense and global operating costs through interviews with industry experts, evaluation of prior studies, and review of expenses incurred at the University of Southern California PET center. A data model and cost templates were developed. Expenses were allocated either to the production or purchase of radiopharmaceuticals or to the provision of the PET scan, and the cost per procedure was determined. A sensitivity analysis ...