"The problem is that once the upgraded equipment is in place, the temptation is to use it on as many patients as possible in spite of the fact that advanced imaging tests may be unnecessary for some patients," says Coates.

Comparative effectiveness requires manufacturers to demonstrate the value of their products and offer evidence that shows potential for improvements in patient care. Coates encourages hospitals to ask for substantiation on the value of upgrades or new products.


"It can be quite intimidating but we're in a different era now under health care reform," says Coates. "The government has designated a new Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute to be established that's going to focus on comparative clinical effectiveness. We're going to see just a groundswell of demand for this kind of information. I think materials managers have to be a part of that if they're going to be part of trying to decrease waste and unnecessary cost in health care."

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