Hi Scott - We also have a number of radiologists who read from home. I think its 15 or so that have the home office set up. The practice has defined shifts that are eligible for "homerad" staffing. The work expectation is the same whether they are on site or offsite. There is a communication protocol too so callers still dial the same phone number they would if the rad was staffing on site to reach the radiologist. Compensation is the same whether working on site or not. Homerads have to meet the equipment specifications as well. There is some monitor testing process that occurs every 6 months to ensure no image degradation. in my experience, the Homerad staffing is NOT for the faint of heart. It requires increased management labor, and IT labor to support the homerad. Invariably an update with the software support occurs and the rad fails to test with enough time before their shift and then it becomes a firedrill. Nonetheless, with the commute issues and focus on burn out and engagement, this is viewed as a significant benefit for some.
We also have a process for support when call volumes are flexing and the load exceeds a certain standard, so radiologists who volunteer for coverage, get a text. They get paid for cases read to get the on call rad out of the backlog. These are paid at 80% of average collection.
Happy to discuss on the phone if you need more info.
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Beth Williams MHA, FACMPE
Executive Director
Vantage Radiology and Diagnostic Services
Federal Way WA
(253) 661-1700 ext. 1105
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Original Message:
Sent: 08-03-2018 10:26
From: Jay Smith
Subject: Remote reading workstations and policy
Scott,
Several of our radiologists have their own reading station. They can read any exam that would otherwise be sent to vRad overnight. There is no minimum amount of exams to be read.
The radiologist turns in a list to me and I pay them our average reimbursement per CPT code (after our billing costs). It has worked well for several years.
Please contact me via email or at 417-894-0878 if you have any questions. Thanks and have a wonderful day.
Jay Smith, CPA, MBA
Business Manager
Litton & Giddings Radiological Associates, P.C.
P.O. Box 14049
Springfield, MO 65814
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Original Message------
I'm seeking feedback from groups who currently have a remote reading program set-up internally for their group rads to help cover various shifts or even partial shifts during weekdays, weeknights, or weekend hours, or just as a brief de-compress mechanism). I'd also be interested to know details such as whether or not these shifts are set-up to require a minimum number of studies to be read (e.g 50 cross-sectionals), how compensated (whether by the hour, a fixed amount, or per study - please don't inlcude any amounts), and any other relevant details you might want to share.
If you'd prefer to have me call you directly for confidential reasons, please let me know (email is sf@radiologyclearwater.com).
Thanks,
Scott Fortson
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Scott Fortson
Practice Administrator
Radiology Associates of Clearwater
Clearwater FL
(727) 441-3711
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