If you've been paying attention to DOTmed News, you know that as of Jan. 1, 2007, Medicare reimbursements for virtually all imaging procedures are being cut -- and cut by as much as 50%!

To view a sample list of the cuts to various procedures, and the severity of the cuts, please consult the following chart from the Access to Medical Imaging Coalition (AMIC), posted on their website: Sample reimbursement cuts

Now if you run a free-standing imaging center, this affects you directly -- see this recent story in DOTmed News "There's Life After the DRA Cuts" for practical solutions.


But if you provide sales or service, these cuts can cut into your business too. But there are ways to turn this to an advantage.

Simply becoming knowledgeable about the facts of this issue will help you -- like checking out the "Sample reimbursement cuts" link above. When you visit an imaging center, just letting the customer know you know what's going on with Medicare will impress upon them that you care about their business.

If you can tell them that organizations like the AHRA and RBMA have strategies to help them cope, that will impress them more.

And pointing out the value that quality, used imaging equipment can add to their bottom-line costs is a sure winner for you.

The point is, "other people's news" can affect you. And if you keep up on current events, you'll be seen as more than a sales and service provider, but a sympathetic friend -- and that can win you more business.