Assessment of risk in radiology using malpractice RVU.

INTRODUCTION: Analysis on the causes and remedies needed to reduce the incidence of malpractice has been under continual studies, although limited data is available regarding quantitative evaluation of the risk.

OBJECTIVES: To determine radiological risk in a preventive and quantitative manner and verify if the malpractice relative value units (MP-RVU) are a good indicator of associated risk factors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Radiological examinations executed by our Radiology Department in 2000-2004 have been codified according to nomenclature HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System) used by United States of America Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). For every examination was calculated the annual weight of malpractice. The data has been groupped in macroaggregates by methodology. The ratio MP-RVU/no. examinations has been considered as an index of insurance risk (MP index)

RESULTS: A total of 133,005 examinations were performed, which produced 25,252 MP-RVU points, the total mp index was 0.193. Traditional radiology represents 38% of the examinations, accounting for 8% of MP-RVU with a MP index=0.039. Ultrasound represents 35% of the examinations, accounting for 23% of MP-RVU with a MP index=0.125. CT represents 13% of the examinations, accounting for 28% of MP-RVU with a MP index=0.434. MR represents 11% of the examinations, accounting for 39% of MP-RVU with a MP index=0.667.

CONCLUSIONS: Malpractice relative value units (MP-RVU) are indicative of the risk considered globally and when subgrouped. MP index correlates this risk with number of exams carried out divided by methodology. This model providing quantitative data for projects concerning risk management and in allowing the correlation between data obtained in different departments.