Commercialization of Quality

Excerpt

The value of diagnostic imaging largely resides on the ability to visualize and identify abnormalities in the image(s) acquired. This ability is enabled in an image of sufficient resolution, field of view, and contrast differentiation, namely an image of sufficient image quality for the diagnostic task at hand. The value of the diagnostic imaging service depends on images and image-producing devices that convey significant diagnostic content. Image devices can find commercial success when they reliably provide images of superior image quality versus competing products; however, products of “sufficient” image quality are often purchased when products offering superior image quality come with a premium price. To date, products and services affording superior quality assurance or quality control at a premium cost or additional expense have found challenging and limited commercial success. This tendency may be changing. With an increasing emphasis on efficient, appropriate, and cost-effective care delivery, the tools needed to attain and maintain superior imaging services are quickly becoming necessities. …