Adoption of alternative financing strategies to increase the diffusion of picture archiving and communication systems into the radiology marketplace. (1/5)

The objective of the study was to evaluate current marketplace conditions and strategies employed by major picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) vendors in the creation of alternative financing strategies, to enhance the diffusion of filmless imaging. Data were collected from the major PACS vendors in the forms of survey questionnaires and review of existing leases. Topics evaluated in the survey included current financing options available, foreseeable changes in PACS financing, role of third-party financiers, and creation of risk-sharing arrangements. Generic leases were also reviewed evaluating the presence or absence of several key variables including technology obsolescence protection, hardware/software upgrades, end-of-term options, determination of fair market value, functionality/acceptance testing, uptime guarantees, and workflow management consulting. Eight of the 10 PACS vendors surveyed participated in the data collection. The vast majority of current PACS implementations (60% to 90%) occur through direct purchase, with conventional leasing (operating or capital) accounting for only 5% to 30% of PACS installations. The majority of respondents view fee-for-lease arrangements and other forms of risk sharing as increasing importance for future PACS financing. The specific targets for such risk-sharing arrangements consist of small hospital and privately owned imaging centers. Leases currently offered range in duration from 3 to 5 years and frequently offer technology obsolescence protection with upgrades, multiple end-of-term options, and some form of acceptance testing. A number of important variables frequently omitted from leases include uptime guarantees, flexibility in changing financing or vendors, and incorporation of expected productivity/operational efficiency gains. As vendors strive to increase the penetration of PACS into the radiology marketplace, there will be a shift from conventional financing (loan or purchase) to leasing. Fee-for-use leasing and other forms of risk sharing have the greatest potential in smaller hospitals, which do not have the financial resources to pursue conventional financing options. Potential PACS customers must be cautious when entering into these alternative financing strategies, to ensure that appropriate safeguards are incorporated, in order to minimize downside risk.  (+info)

Prevalence and predictors of smoke-free policy implementation and support among owners and managers of multiunit housing. (2/5)

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The acceptability of comprehensive smoke-free policies to low-income tenants in subsidized housing. (3/5)

Our objective was to evaluate the acceptability of a comprehensive smoke-free policy among low-income tenants in a group of subsidized, multiunit buildings. We conducted a mixed-methods evaluation that included questionnaires mailed to 839 tenants and follow-up telephone interviews with 23 tenants who were current, former, and never smokers. Most never and former smokers supported the policy, citing improved health, fire safety, and building cleanliness; most current smokers disliked the policy and did not follow it. Messages focusing on shared community-level concerns, accompanied by smoking cessation resources, may support the transition to smoke-free policies in subsidized housing.  (+info)

Utilization rates of neuroradiology across neuroscience specialties in the private office setting: who owns or leases the scanners on which studies are performed? (4/5)

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Plans to run private facility in public hospital draw some strong opposition in Alberta. (5/5)

Proposals to create private wings catering mainly to American patients at some public hospitals in Alberta have attracted strong opposition. Physicians at the Leduc General Hospital near Edmonton voted unanimously against a proposal to create a private wing at their hospital. Proponents say such moves would simply provide additional funding for Canada's cash-strapped health care system.  (+info)