New radiation oncology organization launched

The Imaging Radiology Oncology Association (IROA) has been formed to represent independent diagnostic testing facilities (IDTFs), radiologists and oncologists.

IROA is a collection of U.S. medical imaging industry personnel and diagnostic clinics. The Tulsa, Okla.-based association said it will seek to increase the public's awareness of the benefits of undergoing diagnostic procedures that often promote early detection of cancer.

Brant Gamble, president and founder of IROA, said that future plans include employing a lobbying group that will communicate to Congress and the public that IDTFs operate in an efficient manner and can reduce costs to the healthcare system.

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Positron, a New York-based nuclear imaging company, will now provide Upbeat Cardiology Solutions with advanced PET/CT systems and services. 

The nuclear imaging isotope shortage of molybdenum-99 may be over now that the sidelined reactor is restarting. ASNC's president says PET and new SPECT technologies helped cardiac imaging labs better weather the storm.

CMS has more than doubled the CCTA payment rate from $175 to $357.13. The move, expected to have a significant impact on the utilization of cardiac CT, received immediate praise from imaging specialists.