Patients across the country are being unnecessarily exposed to radiation because of the overuse of scanning technologies, including CT scans, MRIs and X-rays.
This information comes from Hospital Compare, a website from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that tracks data provided by hospitals across the U.S. This data includes how hospitals treat adult patients who have had heart attacks, heart failure, pneumonia, or are having surgery.
While CMS points out that radiation technology can be useful in the detection of health problems, many hospitals across the country are too quick to subject patients to scans that may not be medically necessary. Not surprisingly, insurance companies are also complaining about the high cost of scans, although patient health may not be their first concern.
It's important to be an informed consumer, especially when it comes to your health. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor detailed questions about your illness and treatment, and to get second or third opinions when you're unsure.