Illinois sues radiology clinics over MRI leasing
November 19th, 2007 Posted by: Dr. Cox
In a case legal experts say signals heightened state scrutiny of physician arrangements with imaging facilities, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan is suing at least two MRI clinics for allegedly paying doctors kickbacks for patient referrals.
The state case focuses on a type of leasing agreement the federal government also has put under the microscope in recent years. Under the arrangements, doctors lease time on imaging equipment for a discounted rate, versus paying the MRI owner per scan. The physician or the diagnostic testing facility then bills for the full amount of the service, and the referring doctor gets the difference.