How Much Should Screening Mammography Really Cost?

Models suggest major opportunities to save resources without compromising outcomes.

Considerable pushback accompanied the 2009 U.S Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) screening mammography recommendations (NEJM JW Womens Health Nov 16 2009) Now, investigators have developed models to estimate actual costs (based on Medicare reimbursement) associated with U.S. screening in 2010, as well as those associated with three screening strategies: annual from age 40 to 84, biennial from age 50 to 69, and USPSTF guidance (biennial from age 50 to 74; individualized based on risk from age 40 to 49 and the presence of comorbid conditions at age ≥75).

Estimated costs were US$7.8 billion for actual screening in 2010, $10.1 billion for annual screening, $2.6 billion for biennial screening, and $3.5 billion for USPSTF-recommended screeni…

Reviewing Author

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

How Much Should Screening Mammography Really Cost?

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Reviewing Author