Tulsa, OK -- The Imaging Radiology Oncology Association (IROA) has been formed to present a unified front representing Independent Diagnostic Testing Facilities (IDTFs), radiologists, and oncologists. IROA is a national collection of medical imaging industry personnel and diagnostic clinics. The association will increase the public's awareness of the benefits of undergoing diagnostic procedures that often promote early detection of cancer.

"IROA was formed due to the need for a cohesive representation of the diagnostic imaging community," said Brant Gamble, President and Founder of IROA. "We will employ any means necessary to effectively represent doctors and IDTFs across the nation."

Gamble added that future plans include employing a lobbying group that will communicate to Congress and the public that IDTF's operate in a more efficient manner than hospitals; therefore, effectively reducing the overall cost of the health care system.
"If your doctor orders a CT or PET, wouldn't you like a price quote from somebody in your area that is part of a diagnostic testing facility? You are going to pay more at a hospital than an IDTF," he told DOTmed News. "In today's economy it makes a lot more sense to find costs savings."

"We also believe there is a standard of care out there that we have to perpetuate and a lot of IDTFs are operating much more efficiently than many hospitals, so why should the hospital be paid more [for the same imaging study]?

The organization's mission is to ensure the improvement of efficiencies and access to life-saving diagnostic tests; while policing and managing regulatory legislation that would affect the diagnostic imaging community. The organization is designed to respond to the unique needs of the medical community, who are increasingly responsible for the growth and financial health of their respective organizations.

"We will create and deliver important services and events that are directed at the specific needs of the diagnostic imaging and oncology community," said Gamble.

The education effort and membership drive for the association are now underway.

Further information about this new organization can be found at www.iroaus.org.


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